'Flying' Frenchman fails to cross English Channel

Franky Zapata stands on his jet-powered "flyboard" as he takes off from Sangatte [DENIS CHARLET / AFP]

A Frenchman has failed in his attempt to cross the English Channel on a jet-powered hoverboard.

Franky Zapata attempted the journey from Sangatte (France), hoping to reach Dover (England) in about 20 minutes, flying at up to 140 kph at an altitude of 15 to 20 metres.

But his team says he missed a landing platform mounted on a boat, where he was due to refuel.

The former jetski champion made the hoverboard himself using five small jet engines.

Zapata was making his attempt on the 110th anniversary of the first powered flight between Britain and France.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • Off Script with Chris, Robbie & Sonal

    5:00pm - 7:00pm

    The UAE’s alternative take on news, entertainment and sport. Join Chris, Robbie and Sonal as they cut through the clutter to bring you the news, entertainment and sport stories that actually matter.

  • Extra Time

    7:00pm - 8:00pm

    Chris & Robbie bring you the latest from the sporting world plus interviews with upcoming and legendary sporting stars.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Flying Taxis

    It sounds like an episode of The Jetsons, but the sight of flying taxis whizzing around our cities could be much closer than you think.

  • Tough penalties for deliberate tax evasion

    The UAE has said that tougher penalties will come into force from 1st August for not keeping proper corporate tax records.