GlobalFlyer headed to U.K.

Millionaire adventurer Steve Fossett is headed for England, a decision made after engineers determined he probably has enough fuel left to make it to Ireland if not all the way to London.

Jon Karkow, chief project engineer from aircraft manufacturer Scaled Composites LLC of Mojave, Calif., said the decision was a difficult one. But Fossett has a reasonable chance of completing what would be the longest flight in aviation history, he said.

"It will be tense for us all here during the next few hours, but we will continue to monitor Steve's fuel levels and consumption, and have confidence in both Steve and the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer," Karkow said in a statement.

If all goes well, the GlobalFlyer should pass over Shannon, Ireland, about 11 a.m. EST. Landing at Ken International Airport outside London now is projected at 2 p.m. EST.