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French pilots make aviation history near Folkestone in 'flying saucer'

By: Matt Leclere mleclere@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 14:56, 04 September 2013

Two French pilots made history earlier today after completing the world's first electric-powered airship flight across the English Channel.

Gérard Feldzer, a French TV presenter and aeronautical expert Pierre Chabert took off in Iris Challenger II from Cap Gris Nez in the Pas-de-Calais at 7.30am French time.

They completed their journey in two hours and 23 minutes landing at around 9am in Dymchurch.

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The French pilots' 'flying saucer'
It took the pilots just two hours and 23 minutes to complete the journey. Picture: Transocéans
The airship looks like something out of a Jules Verne novel

The craft weighs some 200kg and the project has cost around £185,000.

Following an unsuccessful attempt in 2011, the pair are now aiming for further records.

Robert Halls captured the moment history was made as the airship landed behind his house in Dymchurch. Picture: Robert Halls.
Land ahoy: The record-breaking airship glides over the beach in the early morning light. Picture: Tony Pratt.

The voyage marks the first in a series of world record attempts.

Next on the list is the speed record and then to attempt to cross the Mediterranean and fourthly a transatlantic crossing.

Read more!

Did you see the mysterious craft land? Do you have any photos? We'd love to hear from you. Email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk

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