Additional Coverage:
- Gigantic experimental aircraft tapped by US Navy destroyed in freak crash off US coastline (themirror.com)
An experimental solar-powered aircraft with a wingspan exceeding that of a Boeing 747 was destroyed after losing power and crashing in the Gulf of Mexico during an unmanned test flight. The incident occurred on May 4, according to the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The aircraft, known as Solar Impulse 2, was originally developed in Switzerland and gained international attention after completing a historic fuel-free round-the-world flight in 2016. In recent years, the U.S. Navy had been evaluating the innovative craft for potential use in maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations.
During the test flight, the plane departed from Stennis International Airport in Mississippi but suffered a loss of power and ultimately crashed near the center of the Gulf, south of New Orleans. There were no injuries reported as the flight was unmanned.
Solar Impulse 2 featured a remarkable 72-meter wingspan while weighing less than 1.5 tons. Its wings were equipped with approximately 17,000 photovoltaic cells, harnessing solar energy for propulsion. The project, led by Swiss entrepreneurs André Borschberg and Bertrand Piccard, involved an investment exceeding $218 million.
Since its initial flights in 2015, Solar Impulse 2 had undergone multiple test flights, some challenged by weather conditions and mechanical issues. Notably, during its 2016 world tour, the plane experienced battery heat damage en route to Hawaii and was diverted due to wing damage and adverse weather.
Following the recent crash, Solar Impulse issued a statement expressing regret over the loss of what it called an important technological flagship.
The aircraft was being operated by Skydweller Aero, an Oklahoma-based autonomous aircraft company that had extensively modified the plane. Investigations revealed the project had potential military applications, and the crash occurred during one of Skydweller’s unmanned test flights. The NTSB is continuing its investigation, with a final report expected to be released in the future.