Solar plane flies from San Francisco to Phoenix

ByThe Skeptical Traveler

Alt text: An image showing a map of the United States with a flight path marked by red dots, indicating stops across the country. The text reads "Solar Impulse in Phoenix! Landed Saturday May 4th at 00:00 AM PDT (UTC-7)." There is a logo on the top left corner with the text "Solar Impulse Across America." On the right side of the image, there is a solar-powered airplane flying above the clouds. The bottom right corner has the text "An idea born in Switzerland."

“The first leg of the 2013 Across America mission was concluded successfully. Bertrand Piccard did a wonderful job throughout the flight, bringing HB-SIA safely from San Francisco to Phoenix, and landing at 00:30 am MST (UTC-7) on Runway 08, Saturday May 4th. Bertrand Piccard did a wonderful job throughout the flight, bringing HB-SIA safely from San Francisco to Phoenix, and landing at 00:30 am MST (UTC-7) on Runway 08, Saturday May 4th.

Bertrand had a chance to give numerous interviews to media all around the world before climbing to an altitude above 12,000 ft. where he was then obliged to wear an oxygen mask. Interestingly enough, more people were connected from Japan than the US, for a short while, prior to touchdown.

Ever thought of flying electric cars? Sure seems we’re not far from that. During the flight Bertrand heard an aircraft asking the Air Traffic Controller (ATC) about Solar Impulse and why he had to remain at a distance. The ATC replied, “Just think of a flying electric car!” cracking Bertrand into a hearty laugh. HB-SIA was extremely well welcomed by all ATC along the way and the exchanges between Bertrand and his ATC interlocutors were very enjoyable. I can imagine how important these exchanges are especially during 20-hour long flights!”

The Solar Impulse team is very excited to spend a few days in Phoenix and we’re hoping to show the plane to as many people as possible. In fact, we were able to organize two days for public visits on Sunday May 5th and Tuesday May 7th between 1 pm and 7 pm. There will be 6 slots per day of one hour each. Given strict airport security regulations, please be aware that a maximum of 150 people are allowed per slot so hurry up and sign up today if you want to get a chance to see the solar airplane! Just register for the day and time most convenient to you (Sunday or Tuesday) and come to the airport with your printed ticket.  Parking is available.”

Both days are sold out but you could be added to a waitlist.

Landing in Phoenix

A person wearing a reflective vest and a headlamp is riding a bicycle on an airstrip at night. In the background, there is an aircraft with its lights on, possibly preparing for takeoff or landing. The city lights are visible in the distance, illuminating the horizon.

From http://www.solarimpulse.com/

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