From 2011: A Unique, Affordable and Isolated way to Enjoy Ballooning

Ballooning is both a unique as well as eclectic pursuit... and it attracts (naturally) a pretty unique brand of aviator to its ranks. But solo balloons are particularly rare... though an undeniably cost effective way to play in the sky.

While there have been a number of single seat experimental and ultralight balloon systems offered over the years, Cameron says its Sky Hopper is a smaller, lighter and simpler concept. Still; they note that the Hopper 'cuts no corners when it comes to features, including a four point "fail safe" suspension system that transmits base loads to the envelope, and a silky-smooth rotation system which incorporates sealed, stainless steel ball bearings.' The design enables the very minimal base to accommodate any Cameron tank, from a 10 gallon aluminum to a 15 gallon stainless steel - all with no modifications.

The harness technology - taken from the world of paragliding - provides in-flight security and easy transition for landing from the sitting to standing positions. It's adjustable for tall - or not so tall - pilots, and even incorporates a footrest. Specially developed, the burner is fitted with quiet multi-hole jets plus a separate whisper unit. Weight without the fuel cylinder is just 36 pounds, and when packed for transport, the pack measures 43 x 16 x 15 inches - well inside aircraft baggage limits. Think of it... take your flying machine with you... in the baggage compartment!

Serving the needs of balloon enthusiasts in the United States, Cameron Balloons US is wholly US owned, managed and staffed. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and fully regulated under the jurisdiction of the FAA, Cameron US has an accomplished history dating back more than 30 years. Serving overseas pilots around the world, Cameron Balloons Ltd. builds Camerons in a production facility situated in Bristol, England.

More than 6,000 Camerons have been built over the past 30-plus years – balloons of all types, sizes and shapes. Cameron is the largest-selling brand of hot-air balloon in the world, and offers pilots the most extensive range of aerostats in the industry: hot-air balloons, personal "hopper" balloons; “first to fly around-the-world” roziere balloons; gas balloons; airships; and special-shape balloons.

FMI: www.cameronballoons.com, http://cameronballoons.com/skyhoppers.html, www.aero-tv.net, www.youtube.com/aerotvnetwork, http://twitter.com/AeroNews