The search for adventurer Steve Fossett continues today:
MINDEN, Nev. — A squadron of 10 airplanes and helicopters began a fourth day Thursday of a frustrating search for missing millionaire adventurer Steve Fossett, whose small plane disappeared over Nevada's rugged high desert.
The pilots flew under clear skies, optimum conditions for trying to spot Fossett's single-engine plane.
"We're going to find this guy, but it's a big country," Civil Air Patrol Maj. Terry Vanzant said shortly before heading out.
Fossett disappeared Monday after taking off from a private airstrip to scout sites for an attempt at a land-speed record in a rocket-propelled car.
• Click here for photos of Fossett.
National Guard C-130s and helicopters with thermal imaging equipment searched the soaring peaks and sagebrush desert of northwest Nevada on Wednesday but failed to find anything new, Nevada Civil Air Patrol Maj. Cynthia Ryan said Thursday.
The search across more than 1,700 square miles has covered only a fraction of the territory that could be hiding the plane. Ryan said the total area was 10,000 square miles, and finishing the fly-overs of the most likely landing spots could take another week.
What I like about Steve Fossett is his belief that he can do just about anything if he puts his mind to it. In addition to setting many world records in aviation, he has competed in sailing (where he set more world records), swimming (he swam the English Channel), sports-car racing, and even dog-sled racing.
I love seeing excellence in all its forms, and Fossett has demonstrated excellence again and again.
As the search enters its fourth day, Fossett's friends admit to a bit of concern.
The search will continue, but what a legacy this man has made for himself, simply by using some of his gifts.
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