A solar-powered airplane flying around the world has been stopped right before its flight across the Pacific Ocean. It’s first stop in the continental United States is supposed to be Phoenix.
Solar Impulse visited the Valley two years ago year during the first successful cross country flight powered solely by the sun. Now attempting to traverse the world, the plane has hit a snag.
Solar Impulse left China this past weekend for a planned 14-day trip to Phoenix with a stop in Hawaii, but bad weather turned the plane back to an alternative landing spot in Japan. Loose temporary coverings in storms then damaged the plane’s right aileron, a flap on the end of the wing that controls the plane’s roll maneuverability.
With a needed repair time of a week, Solar Impulse officials estimate the plane won’t make it to the Valley until June 23, at the earliest.
