Planners Told To Expect ADS-B Waivers for Event Held in Widespread Class C Airspace

The FAA has addressed some worries of locals eager to see the continuation of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, set for its 50th anniversary this year. 

Local event planners have been concerned over the application of certain regulations that they worried would render the affair forced out of its home due to airspace restrictions and the lack of ADS-B equipment in the balloons. The city prides itself as "the hot air balloon capital of the world", and worries that ADS-B restrictions will neuter the industry in Albuquerque. Last year, the Fiesta received a waiver for the event, in order to fly in the extensive class C airspace that spans the majority of attractive tourist spots in the valley. The event planners had hoped to repeat the waivers again this year, but inquired of the FAA to ensure the process would have a solid chance of working for them. The balloons as-is have little provision to install active ADS-B, lacking power systems of their own. 

In return, the agency returned a statement, saying "The FAA has determined that large events such as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta will not be affected due to advanced planning, waivers, Notice to Air Missions and other mitigations for a large airshow. The FAA is leading a cross-organizational workgroup to explore possible solutions to other concerns relating to balloon flights in the ABQ area."

Local U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury has been attempting to secure a permanent waiver for the balloons. In a statement regarding the event, he described the cultural touchstone of hot air ballooning in his state. "Every morning during the Balloon Fiesta, New Mexicans run outside to witness the incredible sight of hundreds of balloons of all shapes and sizes dotting our turquoise sky. The Balloon Fiesta and our balloon pilots who keep this tradition vibrant year-round, is in Albuquerque’s DNA," he said, describing the necessity of the Fiesta to local citizens. "As we speak, my office and I are working closely alongside our balloon pilots to keep our balloons in the air for years to come. I look forward to working with the Federal Aviation Administration to safeguard the absolutely vital economic and cultural institution that is our Balloon Fiesta and hot air balloon community and I cannot wait for this year’s Mass Ascension.”

FMI: www.balloonfiesta.com