19. 03. 99
The finishing line in sight

The log book

18:30 GMT: The Breitling Orbiter 3 is now flying over the Atlantic, with the finishing line firmly in site. Pending any last minute unforeseen difficulties, it will be crossing over the East African coast Saturday morning at about 09:00 GMT. The line of longitude the balloon will have to cross in order to complete the round the world trip is 9.27°W, over Mauritania, North Africa. The estimated time of crossing over this line at present is approximately 12.00 GMT. Due to the fast speeds of 155 km/h over the Atlantic, Egypt, as well as Mali, could now be a distinct possibility for landing. The final decision will be made by the pilots Saturday, depending on the fuel. The pilots are currently totally focused upon their flight for the last remaining hours, calculating their fuel consumption in order to avoid any last minute difficulties.They will then be picked up and brought back to Geneva airport as quickly as possible for a press conference. This morning, the Breitling Orbiter 3 has taken the duration record of Andy Elson and Colin Prescott, of 17 days 18 hours and 25 minutes. A further press release will be sent out tomorrow with updated information regarding the landing and press conferences.