Great Park Balloon Soars to New Heights: Ridership Tops 100,000

September 11, 2009 – IRVINE, California – The Orange County Great Park Balloon reached a milestone in August. More than 100,000 people have enjoyed an aerial view of Orange County from 400 feet in the air from the Great Park Balloon since it took its first flight July 14, 2007. The orange tethered helium balloon is the iconic symbol and the first major permanent feature of the Orange County Great Park. The Great Park Balloon is located in the 27.5 acre Preview Park, which offers year-round programs and events for the whole family as well as a free ride high above Orange County.

“We’re thrilled so many people are enjoying the Great Park Balloon,” said Larry Agran, Chair, Orange County Great Park Board Corporation. “With continued development underway, the Park will be dramatically transformed when balloon ridership breaks 200,000.”

The Great Park Balloon was a $1.9 million gift from the Lennar Corporation. The balloon carries up to 30 people at a time to enjoy an unparalleled view of Orange County from 400 feet in the air. The balloon consists of a gondola suspended below a 72 foot diameter, 210,000 cubic foot balloon “envelope,” which is filled with 5,500 cubic meters of helium. The Great Park Balloon weighs 10,560 pounds, and is operated by licensed pilots from the air or ground. Balloon rides are free, and in December the balloon will get a new, longer-lasting envelope, making the orange icon stand out against the Orange County landscape.

The Great Park Balloon is open, weather permitting, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Flights can be delayed or canceled based on weather. To get flight information call 866-829-3829.

Press Contact:
Jenn Starnes
Public Information Officer
Orange County Great Park Corporation
(949) 724-6574