The concept The itinerary

Contents

The concept A coveted record

THE RULES GOVERNING THE RECORD

The itinerary chosen does not only depend on winds. The non-stop round-the-world balloon flight is subject to ratification regulations stipulated by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI, www.fai.org). Several conditions must be met in order for the record to be ratified. First of all, the balloon must imperatively land beyond the degree of longitude of the point of departure. It must also cover a minimal distance corresponding to two-thirds of the largest circle around the earth (its circumference at the Equator), meaning around 26,700 kilometers (16,600 miles). For example, if the balloon maintains a constant position to the south of the 60° northern latitude, the distance covered would suffice to ensure ratification of the record. Moreover, the balloon must be officially identified by other aircraft and radars at different points along its route which are predetermined by the pilots themselves. Finally, the balloon must under no circumstance touch down or be refuelled in flight. As a safety measure, an FAI inspector places several sealed altimeters within the capsule, which will be analyzed after touch-down.

The itinerary The concept

Contents

A coveted record The concept