Hi, perhaps I can answer a couple of those questions...
Questions about the stops -
1. why so long (1-2 hrs?)
a. fuel slow to get into the extra tanks?
In Tam, we were 55 minutes from touchdown to a possible 'request engine start' - but in fact Steve needed a little more time to de-compress (physically and mentally). There are 6 tanks on the plane (takes about 2.5 drums) and this took about 40 minutes from start to finish (we're hoping to manage faster on Thursday night, but it's a slow process with changing between 3 drums and using a hand pump).
2. are advance teams in place or has he contracted out maintenance checks on the aircraft with FBO's?
a. what checks are being done? Oil replacement, etc?
We're covering Tam, then there's a team (resident company) in Brazza, and then another team sent out for the challenge is waiting in CT. For us, quick check of airframe, add oil and that's about it. In CT they'll do the full pit-stop.
He's on schedule to take the record London-CT, so fingers crossed on that one. Then he has to turn her around and do it all again to get the CT-London and the big one, London-CT-London!
Safe flights All, Sam.