October 9th Mass Ascension will celebrate international pilots representing 16 countries
Albuquerque, NM – Sixteen countries will be represented at the 52nd Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta powered by ExxonMobil. International hot air balloon teams will launch from Balloon Fiesta Park throughout the event, October 5-13.
The popular Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension presented by New Mexico True, will launch as a part of the mid-week Mass Ascension on Wednesday morning, October 9, 2024. The grouped launch of hot air balloons, each flying their country’s flag will precede the morning flying events starting at 7:00 a.m. weather permitting.
Following the Dawn Patrol, the morning launch will include a special opening ceremony at 7:00 a.m. MDT. Weather permitting, the international pilots will proudly display their respective national colors from their balloon gondolas and envelopes as they lift off from Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Park.
Participating countries: 16
- Belgium
- Brazil
- Canada
- China
- Czech Republic
- France
- Germany
- Kenya
- Mexico
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia (new)
- Spain
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- United States
The Flight of Nations is just one of the many global aspects of Balloon Fiesta. The event became international in its second year, with the First World Hot Air Balloon Championship in 1973. Since the 1970s, foreign pilots have been paired with local crews, fostering a unique cultural exchange.