The ability to fly is something human beings have been obsessed with since Icarus flew too close to the sun. We make it a character trait in our superheroes. The Wright brothers built an airplane. I once made a paper plane that fluttered to the other side of the classroom. Yves Rossy made a jetpack.
After retiring from the Swiss Air Force and his subsequent career as a commercial pilot Rossy began tinkering with the idea of a creating a jet-propelled wing.
In 2006, after more than 10 years and 15 prototypes Rossy became the first man to fly said jet-propelled wing — and seven years later he's still the only one.
Rossy — commonly known as Jetman — has crossed the English Channel, Swiss Alps, Grand Canyon and Rio de Janeiro.
Most recently he took his jetpack to Japan and flew in circles around Mount Fuji — the country's most recognizable natural landmark.
The photos and video of his most recent excursion are breathtaking and awe-inspiring.
So if anyone was wondering what I want for Christmas. *cough* jetpack *cough*
Watch the whole video:
