Ken and Jen Kelly’s Xi designed SR22T carries more than their names on the registration. Its colors, accents and details tell the story of their relationship, how they met, their wedding, and their shared passion for exploration. The aircraft reflects their lives together. It became the vehicle for their most ambitious adventure so far: a journey covering more than 100 hours of flight time, 47 airports and 25 countries across Europe and beyond.
The Kellys are no strangers to travel. They have explored almost one hundred countries by air and by land. But this trip had a different kind of magic. It was planned to test the full capability of their SR22T, to explore places where commercial routes rarely reach, and to weave together cultures, landscapes and flying experiences into a single continuous journey.
Setting the Course
The Kellys took delivery of their aircraft in October 2024, designed through the Xi program to match their story and style. They chose the SR22T for its innovation, safety, customization and performance, along with its versatility to fly over challenging terrain and weather without hesitation. For them, the balance of capability and operating cost means they can fly often and fly far, from short dinner flights to cross-country family visits.
Europe had been on their radar for some time. With careful planning, a willing pilot and the right preparation for international flying, the trip became a reality.
The Atlantic Crossing
They began by flying commercially to Amsterdam while a safety pilot ferried their SR22T across the Atlantic. On the return, they flew the crossing themselves: Scotland to Iceland, over Greenland into Canada and south toward home. One highlight was tracing Iceland’s southern glaciers at just 500 feet — “one of the best flights of my life,” Ken recalled.
Learning the European Rhythm
Flying in Europe required patience and flexibility. Each country interprets EU regulations differently, meaning procedures change from one border to the next. Many airports required prior permission and handling agents became part of the experience, often offering local knowledge. The Kellys treated these complexities not as obstacles but part of the adventure.
Cultural Connections
Southern and Eastern Europe revealed unique challenges and charm. Kosovo denied entry at the last minute, turning a canceled flight into a road trip from North Macedonia. In Albania, staff opened the airport just for them. Romania and Bulgaria shared centuries-old traditions. Everywhere, their Cirrus drew curiosity, bridging language barriers and sparking conversations.
In Central Europe, contrasts stood out: Slovakia’s warm welcome, Poland’s tightly controlled procedures, Switzerland’s quiet precision. Northern Europe brought scenic approaches — riding motorcycles on the Isle of Man, staying in whisky country on Islay, marveling at the Faroe Islands’ dramatic cliffs and community warmth.
A Stronger Partnership
Beyond the miles, the trip strengthened how they fly together. Jen took on more responsibilities, from radios to avionics, making each leg a team effort. “It is a great feeling to watch her excel,” Ken said.
What’s Next?
The Kellys are already planning: South Africa and Namibia in 2026, a Florida-to-Alaska flight with a stop at Oshkosh, Central Asia and a Caribbean loop. Ken’s advice to others: “Do not wait. Cirrus has built an aircraft that is capable, safe and supported worldwide. The first step is the hardest, but once you take it, you will see the world in an entirely new way.”
Memories Made
Their summer journey is a reminder that with preparation, flexibility and the right aircraft, the world becomes more connected. The Kellys returned not only with photos and flight hours, but a collection of quiet moments, conversations and the satisfaction of charting their own course across continents.
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