18. 03. 99
Breitling Orbiter 2 days away from happiness

The log book

17:00 GMT: Having passed over Haiti and the Dominican Republic, this afternoon, Breitling Orbiter 3 is heading towards the African coast at an altitude of 11'000 meters and a speed of 64 knots. It will progressively enter the jet stream over the Atlantic and should cross the " finish line " over Mauritania Saturday by Midnight. Unfortunately, team meteorologists are still unable to predict the exact landing spot. However, Mali seems to be the most likely option at the moment, with the possibility of landing on Sunday morning, though the team still wishes to go all the way to Egypt. Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria now seem less likely. Breitling Orbiter 3 took much longer to cross central America (Mexico, Guatemala and Belize in 17 hours) than originally expected. This was due in part to slower winds and because of a poor southerly direction (towards Venezuela) taken by the balloon. Pilots reported minor breathing problems shortly before crossing the Caribbean coast. All life support systems on board showed normal readings, and following medical consultations, they were advised to take additional oxygen for a short period using constant flow masks. After 15 minutes of this treatment, the symptoms disappeared. Bertrand slept for two hours and awoke feeling completely refreshed. Apparently, the heater system is working perfectly. Tension is building in the control centre at Geneva Airport, as staff realises that the completion of the first round-the-world flight is now more than a possibility. Everyone has adopted a policy of " one day at a time ", when thinking about the future.