Hong Kong's first home-built and locally registered plane set off on a journey today that will take in 25 countries and last almost three months.
Named "Inspiration", the two-seater will cover 55,000km before returning to Hong Kong in November.
It took eight years for Cathay Pacific pilot Hank Cheng and the Inspiration team to build the aircraft in Hong Kong, and start the round-the-world journey.
The plane has completed 40 hours of test flights in Australia.
Chief Executive CY Leung and Secretary for Transport & Housing Anthony Cheung attended the departure ceremony.
Mr Leung said the Government backs aviation development in Hong Kong, such as the building of the third runway at Hong Kong International Airport and an aviation academy.
Before its 8.30am departure, Captain Cheng thanked those who helped with the project, and said he hopes it inspires the public to follow their dreams.
