WATCH: Jet Pack Pilot Buzzes Statue Of Liberty

How many people can say that they’ve flown around the Statue of Liberty… using a jetpack?

On Nov. 3, Australian entrepreneur David Mayman of Jetpack Aviation – the creators of “the world’s first civilian RocketBelt” – demonstrated the company’s newest invention, the JB-9 Jetpack, by taking it on a maiden flight around the Statue of Liberty.

Mayman’s flight was the culmination of a 10-year challenge to design and build a light-weight, wearable flying device that will allow people to take to the skies, a release stated.

According to the company’s website:

“The JB-9 jetpack, approved for the flight by the FAA and US Coast Guard was developed by legendary Hollywood inventor (and winner of 3 Academy Awards), Nelson Tyler and Mayman. The miniature jet-turbine back pack is fast, powerful, and unlike rocket powered belts, safe and practical to operate. Tyler and Mayman have spent millions of dollars and thousands of hours secretly developing the device which has never before been seen in public.”

The website continues:

“We have been quietly working on perfecting a JetPack for over 40 years – yes that’s right, since the early 1970s. During this time we have tested all manner of propulsion systems including pulse jets, pressure jets, micro turbines, ducted fans etc and only recently has turbine technology improved to the point that we have been able to build a stable and reliable craft, the JB-9 JetPack.”

Video and photo courtesy of www.jetpackaviation.com