Shannon key in aviation world record success

SHANNON Airport played a pivotal role in a successful world record attempt when an Italian aviator had to divert and refuel there last weekend after a volcanic eruption prevented him from making a scheduled stop in Iceland.

Riccardo Mortara, owner of a successful private Swiss aviation company, left Geneva with a crew of three on Friday to circumnavigate the globe and break a record set previously by the late US adventurer, Steve Fossett.

Mr Fossett’s 67-hour record in 2005 was set in a purpose-built high-tech lightweight jet. In contrast, Mr Mortara flew a 29-year-old Rockwell Sabreliner 65, one of the first business jets ever produced.