At just 21 years and 344 days old, Malaysian aviator James Anthony Tan has set a world record as the youngest pilot to fly solo around the world, completing a remarkable circumnavigation that covered 22,000 miles (40,000 km) and spanned 21 countries over 50 days.
Flying a 30‑year‑old, single‑engine Cessna 210 Eagle aircraft, Tan embarked on the daring solo expedition — dubbed the 1Malaysia Round the World Expedition — on 28 March 2013, departing from and returning to Malaysia’s Subang Airport. Along the way, he faced challenging weather conditions, navigated multiple continents, and inspired aviation fans around the globe with his determination.
Born with dyslexia, Tan overcame personal and physical obstacles to pursue his lifelong passion for flight — a journey he hoped would motivate young people and individuals with special needs to chase their dreams fearlessly. His achievement earned him official recognition in the Guinness World Records and accolades including the ‘2013 Man of the Year’ award. Tan’s record‑breaking feat marked a milestone not only for Malaysian aviation but also for young pilots worldwide, showcasing the power of dedication, perseverance, and passion at any age.
