Archive · 28 Nov 2025
Delhi Launches Hot Air Balloon Rides Amid Pollution Criticism
Delhi is starting a new hot air balloon service at several locations, including Asita Park.
It will be open on weekends from 4 pm to 6 pm.
The balloons can fly up to 120 feet high and carry 3-4 people at a time.
Tickets cost ₹3,000, but there's a special launch price of ₹2,000.
The balloons are safe and operated by trained pilots.
However, many people on social media are upset because they think the government should be focusing on fixing the pollution problem instead of starting this new activity.
Delhi will launch its first organized hot air ballooning service at multiple locations, starting with Baansera and Asita Park on November 29, 2025.
The service will operate every Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm to 6 pm, offering 8–10 minute tethered flights up to 120 feet.
Tickets are priced at ₹3,000 + GST, with a promotional launch fare of ₹2,000 + GST.
The service is operated by DGCA-licensed commercial pilots using a DGCA-registered Ultramagic balloon from Spain.
Netizens have criticized the initiative, arguing that the government should prioritize addressing pollution instead of introducing recreational activities.
- Who
- Delhi Development Authority and Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena
- What
- Launch of organized hot air ballooning service
- When
- November 29, 2025, operating Saturdays and Sundays from 4 pm to 6 pm
- Where
- Baansera, Asita Park, Yamuna Sports Complex, and CWG Village Sports Complex, Delhi
- Why
- To enhance recreational activities and make Delhi a vibrant city
Government Perspective
Public Criticism
Focus of the Initiative
Government Perspective
The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena view the hot air balloon rides as a step towards enhancing recreational activities and making Delhi a vibrant city with world-class infrastructure.
Public Criticism
Netizens criticize the timing and priority of the initiative, arguing that the government should focus on addressing the pressing issue of pollution instead.
- Launch Date
- November 29, 2025
- Location
- Baansera, Asita Park, Yamuna Sports Complex, and CWG Village Sports Complex
- Operating Hours
- 4 pm to 6 pm, Saturdays and Sundays
- Flight Duration
- 8–10 minutes (tethered)
- Altitude
- Up to 120 feet
- Passenger Capacity
- 3–4 per flight
- Ticket Price
- ₹3,000 + GST (₹2,000 + GST launch fare)
- Operating Cost
- ₹70,000 per flying hour
Sources
Delhi to launch first organised hot air ballooning from Nov 29
Delhi’s Hot-Air Balloon Ride: Fun Adventure Or Risky For Health? Experts Weigh In
Netizens slam Delhi LG’s ‘tone deaf’ hot air balloon rides as city chokes under pollution
Delhi to get first-ever hot air balloon ride; netizens ask, “What about pollution?”
