Swiss pilot Raphael Domjan’s team said Wednesday that he had flown to 9,521 meters, breaking the record for the highest altitude for a solar-powered electric plane.
Utilizing warm air thermals, the SolarStratos aircraft broke the 15-year record during its historic journey from Sion airport in southwest Switzerland on Tuesday.
A solar plane’s recognized altitude record is 9,235 meters (30,298 ft).
The SolarStratos project described the accomplishment as “one of those unforgettable peaks that define great human and technological adventures” in a statement.
It took Domjan five hours and nine minutes to fly.
“I share this moment of joy with all the people who have been preparing for this achievement years,” the 53-year- old “eco-explorer” stated.
