A hot-air balloon hit a radio tower in Albuquerque, New Mexico, during the city’s popular festival, according to authorities. Luckily, there were no injuries reported. The balloon, carrying three people, safely landed in a field after the collision. The balloon, an Aerostar International Inc. S-57A, was taking part in the 52nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta when the incident occurred. The Federal Aviation Administration is currently investigating the incident to determine the cause.
The exact height of the tower is unknown at this time. No other structures were affected by the collapse of the tower, as seen in news footage. Earlier in the week, another balloon had a mishap when it bumped into a power line, causing a power outage for nearly 13,000 customers for almost an hour.
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a highly anticipated event, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators each year. The fiesta showcases over 100 colorful and uniquely shaped balloons, making it one of the most photographed events in the world. Interestingly, in 2004, a balloon resembling Smokey Bear’s face got tangled in a radio tower during the festival, leading the pilot and passengers to climb down the structure for safety.
It is unclear whether the tower struck on Friday was the same tower involved in the incident 20 years ago. The festival has had its share of challenges with balloons and towers in the past, highlighting the importance of safety measures during these events.
As we await further details from the investigation, it serves as a reminder of the risks and excitement that come with hot-air balloon festivals. The thrill of watching these vibrant balloons take flight must always be balanced with ensuring the safety of participants and spectators alike. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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