May 10, 2011 at 09:23 PM
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Swiss Watchmaker Sponsors Jet Pack Flight Over Grand Canyon

After being delayed several days due to FAA certification, Switzerland's Yves “Jetman” Rossy has successfully made a flight across the Grand Canyon and swiss watchmaker, Breitling, is making the most of it.


“My first flight in the U.S. is sure to be one of the most memorable experiences in my life, not only for the sheer beauty of the Grand Canyon but the honor to fly in sacred Native American lands,” Rossy stated. “Thank you Mother Nature and the Hualapai Tribe for making my lifelong dreams come true.”

Jetman has already won acclaim for his successful jet-powered flights cross Lake Geneva and the English Channel, but this was the first attempt in the U.S. Natually, Rossy's drop off helicopter wingsuit and parachute were all very noticeably branded with his sponsor's logo, Breitling. The 8 minute, 190MPH flight took place on Saturday.

"The power, passion and precision of flight inspire all of us at Breitling, and we are delighted to help Yves Rossy to achieve his dream of pure flight at Grand Canyon West. Yves is a true pioneer and a wonderful ambassador for Breitling’s values,” said Ben Balmer, Global Marketing Director of Breitling.

The flight was intended to take place on May 6th, but was delayed, according to Breitling, because of the FAA's difficulty in classifying Mr. Rossy’s jet-powered wing.

Some raw footage of the attempt was posted to YouTube this afternoon. See below.

#newstag