This morning, 30 Hot Air Balloons took to the sky’s from one of London’s Major Airports (London City Airport.) These balloons launched for the 30th “Lord Mayors Hot Air Balloon Regatta (Sponsored by Ricoh)” , yet this is the first time that they have launched from the airport! 2017 is the airports 30th anniversary since opening in 1987 and The RICOH Lord Mayor’s Hot Air Balloon Regatta will start these celebrations in style.
Exclusive Ballooning has brought mainstream hot air ballooning into the heart of London over recent years with balloons at Buckingham Palace, the Tate Modern, the Guildhall, Exchange Square and famously flying underneath Tower Bridge for Disney in 2009, and now balloons launching from the historic London City Airport. Chief pilot Andrew Holly was bestowed the Freedom of the City for his work within marketing and fund raising with hot air balloons – using them to help clients raise over millions of pounds for various charities. The company has currently raised £7,000,000 over the years and is rising.
(Photos from my Dear Friend at Exclusive Ballooning)
The Official Regatta Balloon
The New London City Airport Balloon
Exclusive Ballooning Balloon
Out of these 30 balloons, most of them were cooperate sponsored balloons, but there were also 3 special shapes this morning.
- Simballo The Longleat Lion
- The Ultramagic Owl
- Ricoh Red Rube
Hopefully we can do this again next year as it doesnt affect air traffic (LCY closes Saturday at Lunchtime till Sunday at Lunchtime (So balloons dont afftect it)