Phoenix, AZ (13 May 2016) – United Arab Emirates (UAE) Consul General in Los Angeles Abdulla A. Alsaboosi joined local dignitaries and guests to watch Solar Impulse 2 take off from Goodyear Airport in Phoenix, Arizona and continue on the next leg of its historic around-the-world flight. The solar-powered plane – supported by renewable energy company and official host partner Masdar – began its current journey in Abu Dhabi on March 9, 2015. After stopping in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the aircraft will also visit New York City before crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
Consul General Alsaboosi congratulated Swiss pilots and founders of the project, Bertrand Piccard and Andre Borschberg, on their ambitious flight path and wished them continued success on their historic mission.
“I am so proud of Masdar for supporting this innovative initiative and pushing the boundaries on what can be done for a better, cleaner and sustainable future,” said Consul General Alsaboosi. “This trip is a testimony to Abu Dhabi’s leadership in clean technology, and its commitment to a better future. I wish the pilots a safe journey on their way back to Abu Dhabi.”
Solar Impulse 2 is the first aircraft to fly day and night, without any fuel, only using energy stored in its batteries. It is also the first to have achieved an oceanic crossing. Masdar and Solar Impulse are natural partners as they share a visionary spirit of innovation and a common goal of advancing renewable energy. The mission reinforces Abu Dhabi's place as a world recognized leader in sustainability and renewable energy.
