Paper aeroplane world record smashed

A former American footballer has set a new world record for throwing a paper aeroplane.

Joe Ayoob threw the plane 69 metres in an aircraft hanger in California, shattering the old record by 6 metres.

The 27-year-old said he grew up making paper airplanes and his reaction after the record showed just how excited he was.

"Some people might think 'what's the big deal? It's just a paper airplane' but it's a world record," he said after the feat.

"It's kind of blending power, balance and control while you're throwing this fragile, little paper airplane."

Ayoob is a former college star quarter-back in American football.

The plane was designed by TV producer John Collins, who spent years studying origami to create the perfect paper aeroplane.