I was never comfortable with the risk of climbing in the Himalayas, or the amount of time in idleness that is involved in the Everest expedition.

I was never comfortable with the risk of climbing in the Himalayas, or the amount of time in idleness that is involved in the Everest expedition.

This is a Solo Flight, but I want aviation enthusiasts and adventurers everywhere to join me in the endeavour.

I do have some books, but in all the distance flights I've made I've never opened the books. I've been too busy.

I pick projects according to how fascinating they are to me, and it has resulted in a broad reach. My records are actually in five different sports: balloons, airplanes, airships, gliders, and sailboats.

Flying solo, you have a fair workload. I'm not only flying the balloon but doing the navigation, communications, repairing the burners, taking care of the equipment.

People often assume I assume I am a thrill seeker, but I am not. I do not enjoy roller coasters, and you won't find me bungee-jumping. ... It is a disadvantage that my pursuits are inherently dangerous. A large part of my effort is to reduce risk.