The oldest form of flying – a hot air balloon
Published by Balloons on November 3rd, 2008 in Balloon History, Ballooning FAQ's, General, Hot Air Balloon Flights
Hot air ballooning is the oldest form of flying and has always caused a sense of ore and inspiration as these huge structures take to the sky.
The first official hot air balloon flight was launched on the 19th September 1783, by a French scientist called Pilatre De Rozier. The first flight was unmanned, but onboard was a duck, a rooster and a sheep; the balloon flew for around 15 minutes before coming back to the ground.
It wasn’t till two months later, November 1783 that the first successful manned balloon flight took place. This time the balloon held two French brothers, Etienne and Joseph Montgolfier who flew for 20 minutes over Paris.
It is due to the endeavours of these early aeronauts that we can enjoy the delights and splendour of a modern hot air balloon flight. Why not book your balloon flight today, or treat a loved one to the unforgettable experience of a balloon ride.
Did the animals survive the flight? I heard that they were killed by scared onlookers? Can you confirm if this was the case?