Climbs Nearly A Mile Higher Than Current Record

A 67-year old Indian textile millionaire appears to have broken the world altitude record for a hot air balloon this weekend -- with a relative lack of fanfare.

While the record is subject to verification, sources told the Associated Press Vijaypat Singhania's 44-ton balloon (right, shown with a standard balloon for size comparison) climbed to an altitude of 69,852 feet -- which, if it holds, would best the current record by nearly 5,000 feet.

"This goes to show to the world that we are not bullock cart drivers, but we can compete against the best of the world," Singhania said.

The record altitude will be verified by instruments in the balloon's gondola, as well as an independent agency. Once verified, Singhania -- who is chairman emeritus of one of India's leading textile companies, the Raymond Group -- plans to submit the findings to Guiness World Records.

"When I broke the record, I was euphoric. I screamed quite loudly," he added.

The flight of the nearly 20-story-high balloon -- which was carried live on Indian national television -- began Saturday in Bombay. The balloon flew 150 miles south before landing nearly five hours later, to the delight of the jubilant villagers of Panchale.

The previous world record was 64,997 feet, set by Sweden's Per Lindstrand in Plano, TX in June 1988.

Glen Moyer, magazine editor for the Balloon Federation of America, told Aero-News Singhania is a relative unknown outside of India.

"Those of us here in the United States know very little about this guy... the first word the attempt was going to be made came out a few months ago," said Moyer.

Moyer added the type of experimental kerosene burner used in Singhania's flight is of interest to the industry. (Editor's Note: You can hear our complete talk with Moyer during today's Aero-News Aero-Briefing, available here.)

According to Moyer, Singhania is viewed in India much the same as Steve Fossett is in the United States -- as a multimillionaire adventurer, more than a dedicated balloonist.

According to media reports, Singhania also set an ultralight record 17 years ago: he flew 6,000 miles from Britain to India in 23 days.

FMI: www.bfa.net, www.cameronballoons.com