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Jamaican Pilot to Embark on Solo World Flight

March 22, 2007

The Full Story

Jamaican pilot, Barrington Irving, will embark on a five-week solo world mission when he takes off on March 23 from the Opa-Locka Airport in South Florida.
Irving, a 23 year-old Senior majoring in aerospace at Florida Memorial University, will use his single engine plane called Inspiration, to do the historic mission around the world, as the first black and the youngest aviator.
Born in Kingston, Irving was raised in inner city Miami, and hopes his five-week mission will encourage other young people to resist the negative influences of the streets and work towards their dream.
Planning for the historic mission, Mr. Irving had to raise US$1 million, which included a donation of the Columbia built Lancair 400 aircraft, the world’s fastest single-engine, by Seamech International Incorporation, which will carry him on his world flight. Contributions from other industry related organizations were used for further preparation.
In May of last year, he used some of the funds to establish an aviation learning centre at the Opa-Locka Airport, using donated computers and Microsoft flight simulator software, to provide training programmes for young persons wanting to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace.
He also founded a non-profit organization, through which he spends time with other young persons as a role model, visiting inner city schools and engaging in volunteer programmes with youth organizations.
Although he was awarded scholarships in sports, Irving chose aviation instead and has continued to pursue his goals in academic and flight training, earning his private, commercial and flight instructor licences as well as instrument rating.
In preparation for the world adventure, he also had a full schedule, which included intense training in survival skills, preparatory flights and installation of equipment.
Following his return to Florida on May 1, Mr. Irving intends to visit Jamaica.

Last Updated: March 22, 2007

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