Gyrocopter pilot sets new altitude record

The spectacular view from above the Namib as local gyrocopter enthusiast and pilot, Dr Martin Wucher of Okahandja last week reached the unbelievable altitude of 26663.7 feet above sea level. His gyrocopter, an AutoGyro MTO took about 90 minutes to reach this altitude. Preparations for the attempt on the world record took months. Dr Wucher experienced a temperature of minus 37o Celsius at that height and he had to breathe a special oxygen mix. His ultra-light gyro is stock standard as it comes from the factory with no special modifications to boost its performance. The flight took off from the Rostock Ritz airstrip north of Solitaire. A full portrait of this remarkable record will be published in next week’s edition.