Feilding pilot aims for seven world records

Microlight pilot John Bolton-Riley wants to add seven world records to the six he already holds.

Next week, weather permitting, the Feilding pilot intends breaking the record for a transtasman flight and a flight to South Australia.

In 1997, Mr Bolton-Riley became the first pilot to fly a microlight both ways across the Tasman. He also holds microlight speed records.

The aircraft for this record attempt is an Italian-designed Tecnam P96 Golf, owned by Michael Gray, also of Feilding. It can stay aloft for just under nine hours at a time.

For the flight, Mr Bolton-Riley will wear an immersion suit, supplied by Helipro, and a lifejacket.

Because of the aircraft's limited range, Mr Bolton-Riley will stop at Kaitaia, Norfolk Island, Lord Howe Island, Coffs Harbour, Mudgee and Hay before reaching Aldinga.