Aircraft
Aviation Pioneer Dick Rutan Flies West
Rutan flew 325 combat missions during the Vietnam War
Dick Rutan, Vietnam War veteran and U.S. Air Force 'Misty Four-Zero' fighter pilot
© U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Diana Quinlan

Dick Rutan, an iconic figure in aviation history known for his record-breaking nonstop flight around the world in the Rutan Model 76 Voyager, has died at the age of 85. Rutan passed away on May 3 in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, surrounded by family and close friends, including longtime companion Bill Whittle.

Born in Loma Linda, California, Rutan's storied career began in the U.S. Air Force where he flew 325 combat missions during the Vietnam War. As a fighter pilot, he faced intense situations, including two instances where he had to eject from his aircraft.