16/08/2026
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Charles Atger’s 56 hours and 15 minutes in the air remains one of the most remarkable achievements in gliding history.
On 2 April 1952, French pilot Charles Atger flew an Arsenal Air 100 from Romanin les Alpilles in southern France and remained airborne for 56 hours and 15 minutes, setting an FAI World Duration Record in the D1 single place glider category. The record was officially ratified by the FAI.
Atger achieved this without an engine. He repeatedly exploited the ridge lift created as strong winds, including the Mistral, encountered the Alpilles mountain ridge. By continuously working the rising air along the ridge, he was able to keep the glider airborne for more than two days.
His achievement was later surpassed. In April 1954, Bertrand Dauvin and Henri Couston flew a Kranich III for 57 hours and 10 minutes, setting a new two place duration record at the same location.
There was also a much more tragic attempt to break Atger’s single place record. Bertrand Dauvin later attempted to establish a new single place duration record but was killed in a glider accident during the attempt. His attempt did not result in an awarded or recognized record. Following the dangers associated with these extreme duration flights, the FAI eventually stopped accepting further glider duration record attempts.
Today, Atger’s record is classified by the FAI as a historical record that has been retired following changes to the sporting code. Nevertheless, his 56 hour and 15 minute flight remains an extraordinary milestone in the history of unpowered flight.
Imagine being alone in a glider for more than two days. Would you have the mental and physical endurance to attempt a flight like this?