A hot air balloon in the shape of a superbike made its debut at the ongoing Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and according to its pilot, will set the record as the world’s largest hot air balloon.
The balloon, which weighs around 1,300lb (589kg) and is the size of two basketball courts, is piloted by Dutchman Herman Kleinsmit. The balloons was manufactured in England around two years ago and had around 20 hours of flying time before making an appearance at this year’s Fiesta in Alameda, Albuquerque.
Kleinsmit says that flying the balloon is quite simple in comparison to trying to land is tricky as the balloon is so large. It takes over an hour for a crew of 8-10 to prepare the balloon, whereas a regular balloon requires a crew of 2-3 people.
The festival is currently ongoing, taking place between October 7 to 15, in a nine-day celebration of hot air ballooning. It has been running for over 45 years, and is one of the most photographed events in the world. The event has attracted balloons from 22 different countries across the world, including the UK, Brazil, Japan, Czech Republic, Belgium and Vietnam.
Kleinsmit has enjoyed his time in New Mexico so far and is already planning on making a return to the Fiesta next year.
People wanting to experience their own balloon flight have the opportunity to book a hot air balloon adventure in Bath, Bristol and all over the UK to explore the country from the skies.
