- The closing mass ascension of this year’s annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has been canceled.
- The event, which is one of the most photographic events in the world, was canceled due to windy weather.
- According to launch directors, balloon passengers could be placed in danger when winds reach 10 mph or higher.
Windy conditions delayed and then canceled Sunday’s farewell mass ascension at the 51st annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
It was the final day of this year’s event. The mass ascension was scheduled to begin at 7 a.m.
Organizers said balloon pilots were on standby for more than two hours due to brisk winds from the north before the cancelation.
ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA LIFTS OFF, BRIGHTENING NEW MEXICO’S SKY WITH COLORFUL DISPLAYS
According to launch directors, winds of more than 10 mph can be dangerous for ballooning.
The fiesta draws pilots and spectators from across the globe to New Mexico’s high desert and is one of the most photographed events in the world.
Hot air balloon operators create a “ring of fire” with their gondola burners during a solar eclipse at the 51st Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Oct. 14, 2023. (PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)
Over nine days, local residents and visitors are treated to a cavalcade of colorful and special-shaped balloons.
Since its start in 1972, the fiesta has grown to include a cadre of European ballooning professionals.
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More than 20 countries were represented this year, including Switzerland, Australia, Brazil, Croatia, Mexico, Taiwan and Ukraine.
The event also serves as the launching venue for the America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race, one of the world’s premier distance races for gas balloons.
