Balloonists

MADISON, Wis. — Decisions to shoot down multiple unidentified objects over the U.S. and Canada this month have put a spotlight on amateur balloonists who insist their creations pose no threat.

Suggesting that the U.S. downing of the spy balloon violated “international practice” is particularly outrageous as American balloonists have been shot down before, while flying in countries that overzealously protected national airspace.

The balloons are so light that the Federal Aviation Administration doesn't regulate them and doesn't require balloonists to file flight plans, Medlin said.

Worcester Balloon Festival, which will take place for the first time in 2023, said more than 50 balloonists have applied to be part of the event.

LOS ANGELES — “The Aeronauts,” an adventure film about swashbuckling 19th-century hot-air balloonists, was built for the big screen.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to snag a tethered ride with one of the balloonists; but if heights aren’t your favorite, come in the evening to watch the simultaneous balloon glow and fireworks show.

Johnson says spectators are encouraged to purchase a $10 parking pass that will get their vehicle into all the events and pick up a beautiful program that lists all the balloons and has space for the balloonists to provide their signature.