Ducksoup - I just borrowed that off the BBC website, but Fossett is an experienced pilot - his own GV, amongst other goodies! And no doubt working with the Rutan team is going to broaden his aviation horizons prior to setting off?
I have to agree with the comments regarding the start of the thread re-BA bashing - didn't BA do a little bit of Virgin bashing not so long ago? For all his faults, Branson manages not to take himself too seriously - I liked the picture of him trying out for the Birdman of Bognor - and is always game for a challenge (especially if it promotes his company!).