Aviation Pioneer Dick Rutan Passes Away at 85

Rutan, famed for his historic non-stop global flight in the Voyager, leaves a legacy of daring and innovation in aviation.

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.