BALLOON FESTIVAL 2024

The second Balloon Festival was held in Shamakhy in early June, drawing in crowds with an array of concerts, entertainment programs, and master classes on various topics, including information about balloon flights.

Soaring Above Shamakhy

On the morning of June 8, the main event took place as a multitude of balloons filled the sky above Shamakhy. Organized by the Shamakhy district executive authority, the festival attracted thousands of attendees over two days, including many tourists. Professional foreign pilots, along with local specialists, conducted the balloon flights, creating a spectacular display.

The festival left a lasting impression with its vibrant atmosphere and unique moments. Due to the high interest and large number of visitors from various regions, it is expected to become an annual tradition. The inaugural Balloon Festival was held in Shamakhy in 2023 and garnered significant attention, attracting people of all ages from different parts of Azerbaijan and abroad.

Balloon flights are popular worldwide, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The primary aim of the festival is to boost tourism. Balloon festivals are held annually in various countries, drawing tourists eager to participate.

Historical Highlights

A balloon, or aerostat, is a vehicle filled with heated air or light gases like helium or hydrogen, allowing it to fly. The pilot who operates these balloons is known as a balloon pilot. A typical balloon flight lasts about an hour, sometimes more, with baskets accommodating 12 to 16 passengers depending on their size.

The first recorded balloon flight took place on January 7, 1785. French balloonist Jean-Pierre François Blanchard and American naturalist Dr. John Jeffreys flew across the English Channel from Dover, England, landing on the French coast at Calais two hours later. They were honoured as citizens for their bravery.

One of the most renowned balloon festivals is held in Albuquerque, USA. Since its inception in 1972, it has become a major entertainment event. Similar festivals are now regularly held in Canberra (Australia), Bristol (UK), Chateau d'Oex (Switzerland), Quebec (Canada), Velikiye Luki (Russia), Cappadocia (Türkiye), and other locations.

In 1981, the Double Eagle V balloon set a new record by crossing the Pacific Ocean. Piloted by Ben Abruzzo, Larry Newman, Ron Clark, and Roki Aoki, it travelled from Nagashimi, Japan, to Mendocino National Forest in California in 84 hours and 31 minutes, covering 5,768 miles.

In 1987, the first hot air balloon flight across the Atlantic was achieved by Richard Branson (England) and Per Lindstrand (Sweden). They travelled from the USA to England, covering 4,947 kilometres in 33 hours. At the time, their balloon was the largest ever, with a volume of 64,000 cubic meters.