Fifteen year old Australian national Byron Waller, the youngest pilot currently on a worldwide tour, who arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday 17 is proceeding on his tour, aimed at creating a world record.
He landed at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India, yesterday, August 19 , 2025
Byron Waller began his journey on August 9, 2025, from Brisbane, Australia, flying under the banner of his campaign ‘Teen Pilot Down Under.’
He flew from Christmas Island to Singapore on August 15, braving some tough weather, and then reached Sri Lanka on August 17.
Flying on a light aircraft, SLING4 with his instructor, he hopes to set a world record as the youngest pilot. According to ABC News, his journey will span 30 countries across all seven continents, covering approximately 45,000 km over roughly two months.
Byron also sends a message of courage as he is currently diagnosed with a chronic inflammatory condition.
Staff at the International Airport Ratmalana and Premier Aviation were present to welcome him.
His upcoming destinations include the UAE, Egypt, and several European countries, with scheduled stops in Greece, Italy, France, the UK, and Iceland. He will then cross into North America, flying through Greenland, Canada, and the United States, with a planned highlight over the Grand Canyon.
The final stage of his journey will take him across Oceania, with scheduled stops in Hawaii, Kiribati, American Samoa, and Vanuatu, before concluding in Australia.
He hopes to complete his journey by October, potentially returning in time for his birthday.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation had a further report on his tour.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-09/teenage-pilot-historic-flight-youngest-to-fly-around-world/105632098
Pix and text by Rekha Tharangani Fonseka
Former State Minister Lohan Ratwatte passed away today while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Colombo, his family said. He was 57. Recently, he was admitted to hospital following an illness.
Among the top news stories reported today were the passing away of former State Minister Lohan Ratwatte, questioning of NPP Leader Wimal Weerawansa by the CID over the remarks he made about the Easter Sunday attack investigations and a protest march held in Borella calling an end to Israel’s continued bombardment of Gaza.
Two persons reportedly involved in the murder of a resident in Peradeniya following a dispute over a chocolate worth 10 cents has been remanded by the Magistrate when Peradeniya Police produced them in court.
Hundreds of local and foreign tourists have been taken for a ride with Artificial intelligence (AI) generated images that the Nine Arch Bridge has been illuminated, encouraging night time visitors.
Leave Comments