Ardenflight

Official NAA Observer - Kris Maynard

Kris is a volunteer observer for the National Aeronautic Association who provides dispassionate observation and independent corroboration of aviation record attempts. The NAA is the oldest aviation organization in the world, having been chartered over 150 years ago (Visit this link for more information about the NAA.) Kris has been representing the NAA through observing for two and a half years. His last observed flight was an open air trans-continental flight from Boston, MA to San Diego, CA.

Kris' most significant record observation thus far was Steve Fosset's[wikipedia] Absolute Distance Without Landing record flight.

Kris holds four world and five national aeronautics records, and holds a commercial pilot's license.

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The Ardenflight crew received this letter from Kris about his experience as observer on this record-setting flight. We're happy to share it with you:

Matt Brooks
Alan Cirino:

It was an undisputed pleasure for me to be on board Fast Flight One during your World Record attempts. Undertaking a project of this magnitude required serious commitment on your part prior to the attempts, and a tremendous amount of determination and persistence throughout the two days of tasks. I very much enjoyed being in the presence of two highly professional pilots who demonstrated both skill and grit in an effort to make their mark in the aviation record books. Your entire support network can take great pride in the knowledge that the two men in the cockpit executed their roles flawlessly.

The quantity of record attempts you undertook was daunting. The distance flown, just during the attempts, was in excess of 4800 nm. The quality of the records you were attempting was high - including a U. S. Transcontinental task in which you seemingly shattered the old record by almost 10%. I understand that, prior to the attempt, there was some degree of apprehension about your ability to successfully fly coast-to-coast, non-stop and break this record. Now, as a result of this record attempt, you have a new understanding of your capabilities. That is a wonderful thing and one of the many positives that can result from a record attempt. Spending almost 20 hours aboard Fast Flight One and observing your determined and professional execution of the record tasks was a delightful experience. You can be proud of your achievements.
I was honored to be along for the ride!

Regards,

Kris Maynard
Official Observer
National Aeronautic Association

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