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Jeana Yeager

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description Jeana Yeager Overview

Jeana Yeager is an American aviator best known for co-piloting the experimental aircraft Voyager with Dick Rutan. In December 1986, they completed the first nonstop, unrefueled flight around the world, remaining airborne for more than nine days before landing at Edwards Air Force Base. Yeager also helped organize and support the long-distance flight project during Voyager's development and testing.

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How long was the Voyager flight around the world?

Jeana Yeager and Dick Rutan remained airborne for more than nine days, completing their nonstop, unrefueled circumnavigation in the Voyager aircraft in December 1986. They took off from Edwards Air Force Base on December 14 and landed there on December 23.

Who designed the Voyager aircraft that Jeana Yeager flew?

The Voyager was designed by Burt Rutan, an aerospace engineer and founder of the Rutan Aircraft Factory, and brother of co-pilot Dick Rutan. The aircraft was built largely from lightweight composite materials and carried fuel in its wings and fuselage, with fuel accounting for the vast majority of its takeoff weight.

What did Jeana Yeager do before the Voyager around-the-world flight?

Jeana Yeager was a pilot and aviation enthusiast who had developed an interest in long-distance flight records. She met Dick Rutan in the early 1980s and together they conceived the idea of flying around the world without refueling, spending years preparing and training for the mission.

Where can I see the Voyager aircraft today?

The Voyager is on display at the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. It hangs in the museum alongside other landmark aircraft, marking its achievement as the first aircraft to circle the globe without stopping or refueling.