Balloon Aloft Launches New Wheelchair Accessible Flights

Local tourism operator, Balloon Aloft launched a new wheelchair accessible hot air balloon over the Hunter Valley yesterday. The balloon is the first of its kind in New South Wales and is a joint initiative between Balloon Aloft and Cessnock City Council.

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The new balloon can fly between seven to ten passengers and will allow wheelchair users and people with limited mobility the chance to experience the joy of a hot air balloon flight over the Hunter Valley with family and friends.

Balloon Aloft has been operating in the Hunter Valley for over 43 years and Director, Matthew Scaife said today was a profoundly important day for the Company with the launch of the Hunter Valley Accessible Balloon Flights.

“We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the thrill of a balloon flight and our new accessible balloon will make that possible for more people than ever before,” he said.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the balloon’s first official flight was a milestone moment for local accessibility and inclusion, which are critical components for responsible and sustainable tourism in the Hunter Valley.

“Planning and creating accessible tourism experiences like this one in the picturesque Hunter Valley has removed the barriers that prevented locals, families or visitors from enjoying the freedom of flight and will also help the local tourism industry become more sustainable,” Ms Moriarty said.

The balloon basket used for the new accessible flights was made by Australian ballooning manufacturer, Kavanagh Balloons and will allow people with limited mobility, including wheelchair users, the chance to access the balloon basket, via a specially designed door.

The basket also offers customised seating for up to four passengers as well as two harnesses for passengers with higher accessibility needs, to ensure that all passengers are safe and secure during their flight. Wheelchair users will be able to transfer from the door of the basket to the seating using a grab handle. For those that require more assistance, a carer or helper may be required to join them during the flight to assistance help when transferring in and out of the basket.

A wheelchair accessible shuttle bus with hoist access will also be available to transport passengers to their accessible balloon flight to make sure the experience is inclusive at every point.

The project was made possible with support from the NSW Government.

According to Scaife, who was also the pilot for today’s flight, the new initiative will add to the growing number of accessible tourism products available in the Cessnock LGA and Hunter Valley area.

Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley Accessible Balloon Flights will be around 45 minutes to an hour in duration and will be followed by a Celebration Breakfast at local winery, Peterson House. Tickets for the accessible balloon will start from $265 per person.

For further information on the Hunter Valley Accessible Balloon Flights visit www.balloonaloft.com/accessible or to book your flight call 1300 723 279.