The world’s largest land-tethered helium balloon has been launched in Las Vegas, ferrying up to 30 passengers at a time on a mesmerising 10 to 15 minute airborne trip over the Las Vegas Strip.
The Cloud Nine balloon measures eleven storeys high by seven storeys wide and is kept afloat by 210,000 cubic feet of helium. The balloon is based on a design by Paris-based company Aerophile S.A., which originally commissioned the design for the America’s Cup yachting race in Spain. Similar balloons have already proved successful attractions in Paris, Hong Kong and Dubai, but is a first for the United States.
In true Las Vegas tradition, the attraction is illuminated from within and can be seen from miles around as it reaches a height of 500 metres. Any passengers concerned about safety can rest assured that the immense balloon won’t veer off course, as a pulley system ensures it is tethered to the ground at all times.
The attraction’s organisers have stated that the Cloud Nine balloon project has been two years in the making, and that the balloon ride is expected to become one of Las Vegas’ biggest tourist attractions. A spokesperson for cloud9vegas.com explained: “The Cloud Nine balloon is the world’s largest, tethered helium balloon ride.
“Its custom built gondala holds 25-30 passengers and offers our guests the opportunity to soar above the skies of Las Vegas.
“The balloon is always tethered to the ground with a steel cable and is never in a state of free flight.”
