Bristol Airport hosts record breaking balloon ascent
Thirty balloons took off from the runway this morning
Last updated 9th Jul 2021
Thirty hot air balloons took off from Bristol Airport this morning in a world record breaking ascent.
It was all part of a special competition and was kept a secret in advance so crowds weren't encouraged to gather.
It marked the largest mass ascent from an international airport runway ever attempted.
The event, run by Exclusive Ballooning, saw hot air balloons take off by special permission from Bristol Airport runway as they competed in a hare and hounds race, which is the first balloon to land closest to the lead balloon.
Don Davies, Leader of North Somerset Council, said: “What an incredible site to launch from as North Somerset hosts this year’s Exclusive Cup.
"It’s a joy to see so many balloons of different shapes and sizes across North Somerset skies.”
Andrew Holly, Operations Director of Exclusive Ballooning said: “What a fabulous morning for breaking a record.
"I’ve always wanted to fly the Exclusive Cup competition from Bristol International Airport.
"We saw a unique opportunity for a mass ascent from the airfield and, with the full support of North Somerset Council, we me took off this morning from the end of runway 27.
"The whole experience was amazing, surreal and one of the most memorable flights we’ve done.”
Dave Lees, CEO, Bristol Airport said: “It has been an exciting challenge, to plan and arrange an event of this scale whilst keeping the event confidential to remain within the Covid restrictions.
"The region has a long and strong relationship with the hot air ballooning community, from award winning events to hot air balloon design and manufacture and we were delighted to play our part in today’s mass ascent.”