Story ID: 
Aviation Pioneer Dick Rutan Flies West
By: Jessica Reed
Caption: Rutan flew 325 combat missions during the Vietnam War
Word Count: 371
Dick Rutan, an iconic figure in aviation history known for his record-breaking nonstop flight around the world in the Rutan Model 76 Voyager, has died at the age of 85. Rutan passed away on May 3 in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, surrounded by family and close friends, including longtime companion Bill Whittle.
Born in Loma Linda, California, Rutan's storied career began in the U.S. Air Force where he flew 325 combat missions during the Vietnam War. As a fighter pilot, he faced intense situations, including two instances where he had to eject from his aircraft.
In December 1986, Rutan and copilot Jeana Yeager made aerospace history with the Voyager aircraft, designed by his brother Burt Rutan. The aircraft, made largely of carbon fiber, took off from Edwards Air Force Base and completed its global journey without refueling in just over nine days. This achievement earned them not only a place in the history books but also a Presidential Citizens Medal awarded by then-President Ronald Reagan.
Following his military and test piloting careers, Rutan continued to work on various projects, including the innovative Pond Racer, and he participated in test flights.
Rutan's contributions to aviation are immortalized in the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where the Voyager is displayed.
“Dick Rutan was a legend who will be profoundly missed,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen.
In December 1986, Rutan and copilot Jeana Yeager made aerospace history with the Voyager aircraft, designed by his brother Burt Rutan. The aircraft, made largely of carbon fiber, took off from Edwards Air Force Base and completed its global journey without refueling in just over nine days. This achievement earned them not only a place in the history books but also a Presidential Citizens Medal awarded by then-President Ronald Reagan.
Following his military and test piloting careers, Rutan continued to work on various projects, including the innovative Pond Racer, and he participated in test flights.
Rutan's contributions to aviation are immortalized in the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where the Voyager is displayed.
“Dick Rutan was a legend who will be profoundly missed,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen.