Solar Impulse 2 makes historic landing in Abu Dhabi
05:29AM Tue 26 Jul, 2016
Proud and historic moment for the UAE as Si2 becomes the first solar-powered aircraft to circle the globe
Solar Impulse 2, has created history by circumnavigating the globe without a drop of fossil fuel. It has covered more than 40,000km in its quest to become the first plane to circle the world using just the energy from the Sun. The Cairo-Abu Dhabi flight marks the 17th and final segment in the journey, which has included crossings of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Read on to find out how this epic journey that started in March, 2015, in Abu Dhabi culminated in the UAE capital today.
Reporting by Binsal Abdul Kader and Sarvey Geranpayeh.
Follow the live coverage here:
8.30am
Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State and Chairman of Masda: “The pilots have captured world's attention and delivered the message for a sustainable future. Today Si2 has proven that they could make the impossible possible and innovation has no limits.”
For Masdar, it is a great source of pride and inspiration. As the leader of developing renewable energy locally, regionally, and globally, we are committed to take this (legacy) forward.
8.15am
Prince Albert of Monaco: “The spouses of the pilots have also played a role with their support to their husbands during this adventurous project. The incredible message given by them will transform clean energy industry.”
He also shared a famous quote in appreciation of the pilots: "For the good future, you must not only dream but you enable it also."
8.00am
Doris Leuthard, Vice-President of Switzerland: “Si2 has inspired many people. It says that there is a room for optimism (about future). Research by many Swiss companies and institutions have contributed to the success of this project. This will inspire many companies and youngsters to do more research (in this sector), which may facilitate technology transfer.”
7.38am
A 5 minute break is declared as the team prepare to take questions from the audience.
7.35am
Bertrand: "Why don't we dream more? Why don't we try more? When you see the results today, it's because our team dreamed. A lot is starting today. A lot is possible because we have dared to fail, when you dare to fail you can succeed."
7.29am
Pilot Bertrand Piccard can barely hold back his tears as he speaks. "When you see the state of the world today it is a crime to not try and make the world a better place," he said.
Gulf News
Reporting by Binsal Abdul Kader and Sarvey Geranpayeh.
Follow the live coverage here:
8.30am
Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State and Chairman of Masda: “The pilots have captured world's attention and delivered the message for a sustainable future. Today Si2 has proven that they could make the impossible possible and innovation has no limits.”
For Masdar, it is a great source of pride and inspiration. As the leader of developing renewable energy locally, regionally, and globally, we are committed to take this (legacy) forward.
8.15am
Prince Albert of Monaco: “The spouses of the pilots have also played a role with their support to their husbands during this adventurous project. The incredible message given by them will transform clean energy industry.”
He also shared a famous quote in appreciation of the pilots: "For the good future, you must not only dream but you enable it also."
8.00am
Doris Leuthard, Vice-President of Switzerland: “Si2 has inspired many people. It says that there is a room for optimism (about future). Research by many Swiss companies and institutions have contributed to the success of this project. This will inspire many companies and youngsters to do more research (in this sector), which may facilitate technology transfer.”
7.38am
A 5 minute break is declared as the team prepare to take questions from the audience.
7.35am
Bertrand: "Why don't we dream more? Why don't we try more? When you see the results today, it's because our team dreamed. A lot is starting today. A lot is possible because we have dared to fail, when you dare to fail you can succeed."
7.29am
Pilot Bertrand Piccard can barely hold back his tears as he speaks. "When you see the state of the world today it is a crime to not try and make the world a better place," he said.
Gulf News
Photos
