UPDATE: In an extraordinary feat, FedEx pilot Gordon Boettger and co-pilot Bruce Campbell have successfully completed a record-breaking glider flight from Minden Tahoe Airport to Dodge City, Kansas, covering a staggering 1,112 miles on December 19, 2023. This achievement fulfills a 40-year dream for Boettger and marks a significant milestone in glider aviation.
The flight, which took over 12 hours, utilized optimal weather conditions, allowing the team to soar at altitudes of up to 28,000 feet. Boettger, who has envisioned this journey for decades, stated, “I saw this system a week prior, and I was able to assess things and determine that Friday might be the day.” His meticulous planning included coordinating with air traffic control and preparing for the challenges of long-distance gliding.
The journey began early at 2 a.m. on December 19, with Boettger and Campbell launching their glider amid strong winds. Joined by Boettger’s wife, Melissa, and official observer Jeff Resnik, the team executed a meticulously planned flight path that navigated through challenging mountain wave conditions, critical for maintaining altitude across the Rockies.
“Getting across the Rockies was my goal,” Boettger emphasized. “Once on the east side, it was the home stretch.” The pilots faced intense challenges, including freezing temperatures and the need for oxygen during their flight. Utilizing night vision goggles and overcoming canopy icing, they successfully navigated to key landmarks, including Capitol Reef National Park and the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
As they approached Monticello, Utah, the flight’s success hinged on locating a mountain wave. “If we hadn’t found a mountain wave, we would have landed in Durango, Colorado,” Boettger explained. Fortunately, they discovered the necessary lift, enabling them to complete the journey to Dodge City.
The achievement drew significant attention, with Boettger livestreaming the flight on Instagram, attracting over 1.2 million viewers. “The reception was very positive. People were blown away by it,” he shared. The event highlighted Minden as a soaring mecca, aiming to inspire future generations to explore gliding.
As the sun set on December 19, Ittner, a 17-time champion glider pilot, arrived with the trailer to assist in the recovery of the glider. After tying down the glider, the team celebrated their success with a hearty meal, reflecting on their achievement and planning the journey home.
This record-breaking flight not only sets new benchmarks in gliding but also showcases the potential of sailplanes, encouraging young people to engage with aviation. Boettger expressed hopes of establishing a soaring center at Minden Airport to nurture interest in this exhilarating sport.
The implications of this flight extend beyond personal achievement; it serves as a beacon for the gliding community and aspiring pilots worldwide. As Boettger stated, “It’s the most fulfilling type of flying you can get, especially when you’re going somewhere.”
With this historic flight, the world of gliding is witnessing a new era, filled with inspiration and the promise of future adventures. Stay tuned for more updates on this remarkable story!