Flying Around the World Solo in 26 Days: A Record-Breaking Journey
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (October 4, 2025): Renowned aviator Captain Mishaal Al-Sudairy officially launched his new book, “Flying Around the World Solo in 26 Days”, at the Riyadh International Book Fair 2025.
The captivating memoir chronicles Al-Sudairy’s record-breaking flight as the first Saudi Arabian pilot to fly solo around the world. Through vivid storytelling, the book takes readers on a deeply personal journey of courage, discovery, and determination, offering rare insight into the challenges and triumphs of global aviation.
A Journey Across Continents
The adventure began on June 8, 2024, when Captain Al-Sudairy departed from Saudi Arabia aboard his Diamond DA42 aircraft. Flying west to east, he crossed India, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, and Russia before braving the icy stretch of the Bering Sea to reach Alaska.
From there, his route took him to Wisconsin to attend the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the world’s largest and most iconic aviation show. The return journey carried him across Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Northern Ireland, England, Austria, and Crete before landing back in Riyadh, marking the successful completion of his 26-day expedition.
In total, he covered over 20,000 nautical miles and made 30 stops along the way, dedicating three days for the airshow and another three for aircraft maintenance. His DA42 was equipped with survival gear, a satellite phone, and an onboard oxygen generator, ensuring safety during his demanding route.
Passion That Knows No Age
Captain Mishaal Al-Sudairy’s story stands out not only for its scope but also for its spirit. An adventurer and member of the Saudi Aviation Club, he began flying at the age of 52 — just six years before undertaking his solo circumnavigation.
His journey reflects a message of lifelong learning and perseverance. “It brings me great pleasure to share my story through this book, and I hope it inspires people of all ages,” said Al-Sudairy. “There is no age too young or too old to start flying. Aviation teaches discipline, builds strong habits, and creates connections across generations.”
A Legacy for the Next Generation of Pilots
A lifetime member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Captain Al-Sudairy’s achievement celebrates both Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in global aviation and the passion of private pilots worldwide. His book, available now in Arabic through Kitabouna, will also be released in English by the end of the year, reaching aviation enthusiasts around the world.
With this release, Captain Al-Sudairy hopes to inspire readers to chase their dreams — whether in the skies or beyond proving that passion and determination truly have no limits.
