PRESQUE ISLE — Despite last month’s fatal hot air balloon crash in Texas, organizers of the 13th annual Crown of Maine Balloon Fest that starts on Aug. 25 remain optimistic about upcoming attendance and demand for rides.
Theresa Fowler, executive director of the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, said organizers of the event here were “horrified” by the tragedy in Lockhart, Texas, on July 30, when 16 people were killed in a hot air balloon crash.
But Fowler stressed that the safety precautions taken by the organizers and balloon pilots involved with the Crown of Maine event would ensure the safety of all passengers.
Twelve hot air balloons are expected for the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest that runs from Aug 25-28.
Fowler said that organizers did not make any changes to the festivities as a result of the Texas tragedy. They also do not expect to see a drop in the number of people seeking balloon rides this year.
“We usually see a couple hundred people who want to ride in the balloons each year,” she said. “This year, we have a special balloon from Brazil called Tri-birds. We are hoping to have great weather.”
Marie Hastings of Houlton said Aug. 10 she has enjoyed the balloon fest every year and even paid for a balloon ride once. After the mishap in Texas, however, she has decided not to repeat the experience.
“I had a great time and the views were spectacular, but after what happened out there, I am just too scared,” she said. “It is too bad, because my grandchildren really want to go up in one.”
