Tag: Jet Pack International

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To me, nothing conveys an idyllic vision of the future like the jetpack. That's why I love that this midcentury dream device continues to make headlines even in the 21st century.

Last year, stuntman and professional jetpack pilot Eric Scott set a world record by flying over Colorado's Royal Gorge, and last weekend, he did it yet again by claiming the first jetpack speed record.

Soaring several feet above Scotland's Knockhill Racing Circuit, Scott achieved an official speed of 68 miles per hour. Scott claims to have reached speeds higher than that, but strong winds at the track hindered his performance.

Current jetpack technology still limits flight time to about 30-40 seconds, which is not much more than what was achieved back in the 1960s, but rumor has it that Scott is working on a new unit that can sustain flight for up to 30 minutes.

If he succeeds, then we all might finally be able to fly to work like we were promised 60 years ago.

If you've ever dreamt of flying through the air with a jetpack strapped to your back like Commando Cody in Radar Men From the Moon, this may be your chance.

Jet Pack International, the company with whom world-record jetpack pilot Eric Scott works, is currently looking to add another pilot to their crew. They're performing a worldwide, open-invitation search for the perfect candidate to fly their state-of-the-art jetpack and perform at high-profile events.

According to their press release, "Potential pilots cannot have a fear of heights, going fast, performing in front of tens of thousands of fans, being on camera or becoming an international celebrity."

Everyone interested is required to send in an application, a headshot and a video explaining in 5 minutes or less why they deserve to be a jetpack pilot. Once the most likely prospects are chosen, they'll be put through "rigorous training and testing," though only one will emerge victorious.

What's more, the whole process is going to be taped for a reality TV show. ... Continued

Speaking of jetpacks, stuntman Eric Scott has brought futuristic daydreaming to the forefront once again by flying over Colorado's Royal Gorge earlier this week using just such a device.

In what has been called a world record, Scott covered 1,500 feet across the gorge, which drops more than 1,000 feet to the Arkansas River. Flying at about 75 miles per hour, he completed the flight in 21 seconds. (Video below.)

His jetpack, based on a design invented by Bell Aerosystems in the 1960s known as the Rocket Belt, uses superheated hydrogen peroxide to provide thrust. Bell's original design could fly no more than 20 seconds, but more recent developments have extended the flight time to a little over 30 seconds. ... Continued