Young Australian, Lachlan Smart, who is attempting to become the youngest person to fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft, arrived in Sri Lanka, the Australian High Commission in Colombo said today.
This is the first time that an 18 year old has attempted an aviation journey of this magnitude. Lachlan started his journey from the East Coast of Australia on the 4th of July 2016 in a single engine aircraft. He is set to cover 24,000 nautical miles, including 26 stops in 20 countries on five continents in 7 weeks. He is the youngest Australian to attempt flying the world in a single-engine aircraft. The first Australian to make such an attempt was Ryan Campbell who completed his journey in 2013 at the age of 19 in seven months and 25 days.
If Lachlan is successful in completing his adventure in the sky, he will become the youngest person in history to circle the globe in a single-engine aircraft.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Bryce Hutchesson said “we’re very proud to welcome Lachlan to Sri Lanka as he attempts to set a world record. He’s an excellent example to young people the world over that you can achieve amazing things if you put your mind to it. We wish you all the best in your onward journey back home to Australia. Until then we hope you enjoy the welcome and hospitality of this special country, Sri Lanka”. (Colombo Gazette)