Father-son aviators plan record-breaking flight

A father-and-son's attempt to fly a single-engine plane around the world will be celebrated during an International Festival, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, at Greenwood Municipal Airport.

Babar and Haris Suleman, Plainfield, plan to fly around the world in 30 days to raise awareness and cash for The Citizens Foundation, a nonprofit that helps build schools in rural Pakistan.

If they are successful, Haris, 17, will be the youngest co-pilot to make the trip.

"I am really looking forward to getting going," Haris, a junior at Plainfield High School, said in a news release. "I only just got my license, but I can't imagine a better way to spend my summer."

The Sulemans plan to take flight on June 20, depending on the weather. They will stop in Canada, Iceland, England, Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan, Indonesia, Australia, Fiji, American Samoa, Hawaii and California. Anyone with an internet connection can follow their trip at http://flyaroundtheworldin30days.com.

Babar is an engineer and consultant who helps in managing nuclear power plants. He has been flying private planes for years.

Haris, who was just 8 when he started flying with his father, is the captain of the trip.

"He will be the pilot in command. I will only take over the controls in an emergency situation," Babar said.

"If all goes well, my son will be going back to school for his senior year with some tall tales to tell."

Call Star reporter Vic Ryckaert at (317) 444-2701. Follow him on Twitter: @VicRyc.

If you go:

What: International Festival and sendoff for Babar and Haris Suleman

When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 7.

Where: Greenwood Municipal Airport, 799 E. County Line Road, Greenwood.

Activities: Music, performances, ethnic food, art exhibit, vintage aircraft, face paiting, inflatable obstacle course, raffle and prizes.

Admission: Free.