Swiss Pilot Breaks Solar-Powered Plane Altitude Record

TDT | Manama

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Swiss pilot and eco-adventurer Raphael Domjan has set a new world altitude record for a solar-powered electric plane, soaring to 9,521 metres in a landmark flight over the Swiss Alps.

The record-breaking journey took place on Tuesday from Sion Airport in southwest Switzerland. Riding warm air currents, Domjan surpassed the previous mark of 9,235 metres — a record that had stood for 15 years.

His sleek white aircraft, SolarStratos, completed the five-hour-and-nine-minute flight with zero fuel, relying entirely on its high-tech solar panels.

“This is one of those unforgettable moments that combine human passion with technological achievement,” the SolarStratos team said.

The 53-year-old pilot, who has been working toward this milestone for years, dedicated the success to everyone involved in the mission. “I share this joy with all those who prepared for it,” Domjan said.

The new record still needs to be confirmed by the World Air Sports Federation, which will verify the altitude data.

Domjan’s ambition doesn’t stop here — his next goal is to become the first pilot to fly a solar-powered plane above 10,000 metres, matching the cruising height of commercial jets. Ultimately, he hopes to reach the edge of the stratosphere, around 12,000 metres in Switzerland, using only the power of the sun.

The SolarStratos aircraft is built for efficiency — it’s made from lightweight carbon fibre, spans nearly 25 metres from wingtip to wingtip, and is covered with 22 square metres of advanced solar panels. It can take off at just 50 km/h and cruise at around 80 km/h, all without a single drop of fuel.

“This mission is about more than breaking records,” the team said. “It’s about inspiring people, showcasing what solar energy can do, and protecting our planet.”