Inventor Franky Zapata set to fly over Channel on jet-powered flyboard

The flyboard is capable of reaching speeds of nearly 87mph and is powered by 36kg of kerosene.

By Enda Brady, news correspondent

Image: The inventor lands on a flyboard during a demonstration as he prepares to cross the English Channel

French inventor Franky Zapata says he will have a "50% chance of success" when he attempts to cross the Channel on his flyboard later today.
The 40-year-old military reservist plans to fly from Sangatte, near Calais, to St Margaret's Bay near Dover in around 20 minutes.

His invention won global acclaim when he flew over the country's Bastille Day celebrations in Paris on 14 July, with French President Emmanuel Macron later tweeting a video of his exploits.

Image: The inventor will have to refuel halfway as each rucksack of fuel only lasts 10 minutes

"I feel great and I'm looking forward to this incredible aviation challenge," said Mr Zapata as he practised on a remote airfield outside Calais.
"The biggest obstacle is me, my body, what's between my head and my feet. I have absolute confidence in the technology.

"It's going to be tough and I would say at the moment I have a 50% chance of success. Let's see what happens. The feeling of flying on the flyboard is just amazing."
The board has five mini engines underneath and is powered by 36kg of kerosene, which Mr Zapata carries in a rucksack.