Overview

• Dick Rutan, known for the first non-stop, unrefueled flight around the world, died after a severe lung infection.
• He co-piloted the Voyager, which took off from Edwards Air Force Base in 1986, marking a significant milestone in aviation.
• Rutan's career spanned over decades, including 300 combat missions in Vietnam and numerous test flights.
• Beyond aviation, Rutan attempted global circumnavigation by balloon and ventured into politics, reflecting his adventurous spirit.
• His contributions to aviation are honored by the Smithsonian, which houses the Voyager in its National Air and Space Museum.