The UAE welcomed a special visitor this week as 15-year-old Australian pilot Byron Waller landed in Abu Dhabi on his record-breaking journey to fly around the world. Setting off from Brisbane earlier this month, Byron has already crossed multiple countries, showcasing determination and inspiring young people worldwide.
Key Highlights
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15-year-old pilot Byron Waller attempts world flight.
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Landed in Abu Dhabi on August 22.
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Already covered Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and India.
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Previous record: youngest pilot to fly 6,000 miles around Australia.
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Supported by instructor and school with remote learning.
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Aims to complete journey in two and a half months.
Inspiring Youth Across Borders
Byron shared his motivation for the journey during a video call while still on his plane.
“I want my flight to be a message to all youngsters: you can achieve your dreams, no matter how big or small,” he said. “Put down your devices and go after what you want to do.”
Last year, Byron made headlines as the youngest pilot to fly more than 6,000 miles across Australia, a feat that fueled his ambition to take on the globe.
Overcoming Challenges Through Passion
Byron’s journey into aviation was shaped by resilience. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 13, he found strength in flying as a hobby encouraged by his parents. Within a year, he went into remission and completed his Australia flight — a turning point that inspired his current mission.
“Flying became my passion,” Byron explained. “It gave me focus, energy, and a reason to keep pushing forward.”
Global Journey So Far
Taking off from Brisbane Airport on August 9, Byron has already flown over and landed in Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, India, and now the UAE. Each stop has given him a new perspective on the world’s diversity.
“From the vastness of Australia to the culture of Sri Lanka and the energy of Singapore, it’s been amazing to see how diverse our world really is,” he shared.
Accompanied by his instructor Paul Denness, Byron continues to sharpen his skills, learning the demands of long-haul international flights that few pilots at his age experience.
Balancing Flight and Studies
Despite the demands of his ambitious trip, Byron remains committed to education. As a Grade 11 student, he continues his schoolwork through an online learning portal.
“During the term, I usually only fly on weekends,” he said. “Now, on this trip, I fit in my schoolwork whenever I can.”
Next Destinations
From Abu Dhabi, Byron will continue westward to Egypt and beyond, aiming to complete his record-setting global journey in about two and a half months. His long-term dream is to pursue a career in the private jet industry, combining passion with profession.
FAQs
Q. Who is Byron Waller?
Ans: A 15-year-old Australian pilot attempting to fly around the world.
Q. When did his journey begin?
Ans: He departed from Brisbane on August 9, 2025.
Q. Which countries has he visited so far?
Ans: Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, India, and now the UAE.
Q. What makes this journey historic?
Ans: If completed, Byron will be among the youngest pilots to circumnavigate the globe.
Q. What are his future plans?
Ans: Byron dreams of working in the private jet industry while continuing his passion for aviation.
Wrapping Up
Byron Waller’s landing in Abu Dhabi is more than a milestone in aviation — it’s a symbol of resilience, ambition, and inspiration for youth worldwide. His journey reminds young dreamers that with determination and support, even the sky is not the limit.
