Capt James Tan Marks His Name In Malaysia’s Aviation History

Yet another historical milestone was made on May 14 when Captain James Anthony Tan broke multiple records, be it at national, regional and international level, following his success in completing his flight around the world. The 21 year old pilot had completed a 48-day solo flight across 20 country with his Cessna P210 Silver Eagle single engine aircraft, named Spirit of Malaysia.

Throughout his mission, the young pilot had encountered several dangerous situation including part of his engine froze when he flew over Alaska and he faced difficulty when flying through a storm en route to Japan from Taiwan. Nevertheless, the strong will youth had pressed on with his endeavor and so had managed to break two Guinness Book of Records, the World Aviation Academy as well as the Malaysia Book of Records.

With his current feat, Captain Tan is the youngest pilot ever conducting solo flight around the world in the fastest period of time. He is also the first Malaysian who had successfully flew around the world as well as the first from ASEAN to do so. Last year, Captain Tan was also inducted into the Malaysia Book of Records for the 13,000 nautical miles expedition from the UK to Bangkok and back.

The previous world record for the youngest pilot ever attempting a round the world solo flight was on July 11, 2012 by 22 years old Swiss, Captain Carlo Shmidt who had completed his flight in 80 days.

Tan left Langkawi on March 28 during LIMA 2013 and flown 21,103 nautical miles (39,083 km) around the world before making a short stop at Alor Setar AFB. From there, his piston engine aircraft flew to his final destination, the Subang AFB accompanied by three RMAF PC-7Mk II turboprop trainers from PULATIBANG I flown by six RMAF instructor pilots including two female pilots.

Scores of guests including the Prime Minister, the Armed Forces Chief, the Air Force Chief of Staff as well Captain Tan’s parent awaits him as his aircraft landed safely at the airbase at around 1300H.

In his speech, the Prime Minister said that Malaysian youth can achieve great success by doing something outstanding with their lives and stepping out of their comfort zones.

He also said the country’s progress depended on this spirit of competitiveness, which was something youth could strive to achieve.

“I hope youth would not accept the status quo or the norm. They should ask themselves: ‘what can I do? Can I do something better?’

“Our success as a nation depends on the spirit of competitiveness and desire to try things that other people have not achieved,”

“We have many Malaysians who have accomplished extraordinary feats, and today we are proud to say that Capt James is one more Malaysian who can inspire and offer something special,” said Najib.

The 1Malaysia Round The World (1RTW) program with its “1Malaysia 1Dream 1Flight Around The World” theme was organised by the Malaysian Youth Pilot association and Malaysian FELDA Youth Council in partnership with 1Malaysia For Youth (1M4U). The program is also supported by the Tourism Malaysia which has provided warm welcome at major stops in Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, Canada, the US, the UK, France, Italy and Jordan.

Through its overseas offices and in collaboration with the Malaysian embassies and high commissions, Tourism Malaysia has organised press congerences and interviews to generate publicity. Captain Tan has become an unofficial tourism ambassador for Malaysia as his Spirit of Malaysia aircraft bears the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 (VMY 2014) logo around the world.

During his stop in the United States, the Malaysian pilot had received New York City Special Proclamation Award by the New York City Comptroller, John C. Liu. He also received the New York State Procalamation Award from Senator Martin Golden who praised the young pilot’s passion for flying and overcoming life’s hurdles.

[Source: Malaysia Flying Herald]

Of course some of you jealous of him, yeah being sponsored by the Government of Malaysia. Who doesn't? One does not simply fly alone the whole world with their own money. However, we all proud of him for doing such an epic journey. Actually, flying is also considered an extreme sports with all the tense of getting the world record. hehe  I wonder they give 'Dato' title to him. 'Capt. Dato James Tan' ! All the best Capt James Tan!