16-Year-old Pilot Flies Around the World: ‘Da Nang’s People Are Very Kind’

On the 125th day of the solo round-the-world flight, Mack Rutherford (British-Belgian nationality) landed at King County International Airport in Seattle, Washington state, USA.

Despite the busy schedule, the 16-year-old pilot took time to share with the Vietnamese press on his memories of stopping in Da Nang on July 19, which is the 108th day of his journey.

Despite the busy schedule, the 16-year-old pilot took time to share with the Vietnamese press on his memories of stopping in Da Nang on July 19, which is the 108th day he departed. Photo: the British Embassy in Vietnam

Energetic assistance

Rutherford was only given a single day off in the Vietnamese coastal city. Many people were thrilled to see the youngster checking in at the Dragon Bridge when it was shared by the British Embassy in Vietnam.

“I can’t wait to eat some delectable regional cuisine and ride a motorbike around the city. Due to an early trip the following morning, I was unable to do any sightseeing. However, I still have the chance to visit the beach, and it’s extremely lovely,” he remarked.

Mack Rutherford took advantage of visiting Da Nang and was helped refuel the plane. Photo: the British Embassy in Vietnam

Rutherford claimed that the people of Da Nang gave him a warm welcome and showed him great kindness. They eagerly assist the pilot in all of their needs, including refueling the aircraft.

“I have never been to Vietnam before, but I really hope to be able to go back when I have more time in the future.”

Rutherford answered that each country he has visited has made a unique impression when asked about the most impressive location so far on the journey. The young man was unable to decide as a result.

As he looked around, he added, “I am happy every time I land in a new nation because I know that I will experience something that I have never experienced before.

Photo: Vietnamnet

Need some motivation?

On March 23, Mack Rutherford set out from Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, in an attempt to break the record for “youngest person to fly an airplane around the world alone.” The Shark, an ultralight aircraft with a top speed of 300 km/h, is flown by the boy.

Rutherford has traveled by air to the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. England will complete the adventure by going back to Europe.

How Rutherford eats during lengthy flights is a common query he gets from followers. The man claims to always have protein bars and almonds on hand to supplement his diet on his website.

Vietnam is the 17th country Mack Rutherford has visited on his solo circumnavigation of the world. Photo: the British Embassy in Vietnam

In the UK, Rutherford is currently a high school student. The lad has always had a love for flying because both of his parents are pilots. When he was 7 years old, he first touched the controls and turned the plane on.

Rutherford became the youngest pilot in the world when he obtained his Microplane license at the age of 15. The young man took two flights across the Atlantic.

The New York Post reports that on January 20, Mack Rutherford’s sister Zara became the world’s youngest female pilot to fly an airplane around the planet on her own. After five months of driving the Shark across five countries, she set a record at the age of nineteen.

Rutherford stated she will work to achieve her goals since she was motivated by her sister and family.

Mack Rutherford wishes to inspire young people through his travels. Photo: Vietnamnet

Along the way, the young guy hopes to meet many other young people with whom he may work to improve the community and possibly the entire globe.

Mack is a terrific pilot when he is with Zara Rutherford. She always keeps an eye on and has faith in her brother.

Mack Rutherford’s family of pilots. Photo: Vietnamnet

Travis Ludlow currently holds the Guinness record for being the youngest person to fly a plane around the planet by himself. The British pilot finished the journey last year at the age of 18.