Aviation pioneer Dick Rutan, known for completing the first round-the-world flight with no stops or refueling, passed away at the age of 85 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. His brother, Burt Rutan, who designed the plane Voyager for the historic flight, recounted the nerve-wracking moments leading up to the takeoff. Despite facing numerous challenges during testing, including mechanical failures and turbulence concerns, the Rutan brothers remained determined to achieve their dream of circling the globe in a single trip.
The Voyager took off from Edwards Air Force Base in California on December 14, 1986, with Dick Rutan at the controls alongside copilot Jeana Yeager. The aircraft was heavily laden with fuel, causing the wing tips to scrape along the runway as it gained speed. A last-minute adjustment by Dick allowed the plane to lift off smoothly, beginning its journey around the world. The flight was not without its risks, as the pilots had to endure long periods without sleep and rely on their expertise to navigate the challenges of a nonstop circumnavigation.
Upon completing their unprecedented journey, the Rutan brothers and Yeager were hailed as heroes and received the Presidential Citizens Medal from President Ronald Reagan. In his speech, Dick Rutan emphasized the importance of freedom and the sacrifices made by those who defend it. His military background, which included over 300 combat missions during the Vietnam War, shaped his perspective on the value of liberty and the need to protect it from those who seek to limit it in the name of safety.
Throughout his life, Dick Rutan continued to push the boundaries of aviation, setting records and engaging in daring adventures. His achievements included flying a rocket-powered plane and carrying U.S. mail for the first time using such an aircraft. Colleagues and friends remember Rutan as larger than life, with a legacy spanning from his combat missions in Vietnam to his groundbreaking flights in experimental aircraft. His courage and determination in the face of adversity inspired those around him.
In his final hours, Dick Rutan displayed the same bravery and humor that characterized his life, facing death with sharpness and composure. His wife, daughters, and grandchildren survive him, carrying on his legacy of courage and innovation in the field of aviation. Rutan’s contributions to the world of flight, from his military service to his record-setting feats, have left an indelible mark on the history of aviation and inspired generations of pilots and engineers to reach for the skies.
The passing of Dick Rutan marks the end of an era in aviation, one that was marked by boldness, ingenuity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of human ambition and the enduring spirit of exploration that drives individuals to achieve the impossible. As the aviation community mourns the loss of a true pioneer, they also celebrate the life and accomplishments of a man who dared to dream and made those dreams a reality through sheer determination and skill.
