Byron Waller hasn’t turned 16 yet, can’t drive a car or buy beer. However, on Wednesday he landed his small aircraft at Brighton airport, continuing his mission that aims to make him the youngest supported pilot to complete a solo flight around the world.
His journey began four weeks ago from Brisbane, Australia and has already taken him over the Indian Ocean, through the Middle East and into Europe. From there he will continue the route until he returns home. Since international regulations don’t allow minors to travel alone on such missions, he’s accompanied by an instructor, though Byron is the one handling the single-engine Sling TSi.
The flights are lengthy, with the most demanding so far lasting ten hours – from Singapore to Sri Lanka. He says that to pass time they chat or listen to music: “During takeoff and landing I need absolute silence to hear air traffic control. Otherwise, I usually put on Top Gun at the beginning,” he comments, laughing.
His life hasn’t been easy. From childhood he faced serious health problems and was frequently hospitalized, until at 14 he was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. “It cost me a lot. I missed birthdays, school games, moments with friends,” he recalls. His first flight, at four years old during a scout event, sparked his interest. At 13 he began pilot lessons and hasn’t stopped since. “It was like a new beginning that gave me strength to escape from the hospital,” he says.
When his illness went into remission last year, he completed a flight around Australia to raise awareness for Crohn’s disease and the Queensland children’s hospital, where he had spent much of his childhood. After completing that mission, he set a new goal of flying around the world.
His parents were initially worried, but were convinced about the safety of the endeavor and now fully support him. His mother, Jenny Langton, coordinates everything from Brisbane as his manager, staying in constant communication with him.
Beyond the personal challenge, Byron wants to inspire other young people: “Many don’t have proper motivation and are constantly on their devices. I want to show that they can achieve their dreams and overcome obstacles,” he explains.
After participating in the International Ayr Show in Glasgow, he will continue toward Iceland and Greenland. His goal is to return home on October 13, his birthday, so he can apply for a recreational license that will allow him to fly single-engine aircraft alone. “Maybe I’ll rest for a week… and then back in the air,” he says, smiling.
