Published: 10:31am, 5 Sep 2025Updated: 1:14pm, 5 Sep 2025
Hong Kong’s hot-air balloon festival has suffered another setback as it was forced to deflate all its balloons on display due to the scorching weather, a day after suspending its tethered ride after failing to secure a relevant permit in time.
Advertisement
At 9.45am on Friday, the Post observed that the display balloons had been deflated at the AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong at Central Harbourfront, with a broadcast announcement saying it had done so because of the hot weather.
According to the city’s forecaster, temperatures in Hong Kong could rise to as high as 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit) during the day.
Earlier on Thursday evening, the organiser apologised for suspending its tethered ride after failing to secure a relevant permit in time, while offering those who bought entrance tickets an additional visit to the carnival.
The offer came amid mounting calls for refunds by residents, who questioned the organiser’s decision to sell tickets before receiving government approval for the ride.
Advertisement
“We sincerely apologise for any disappointment regarding the tethered rides experience,” the organiser said on its website, referring to the ride that involved securing the hot-air balloon to the ground with cables or ropes.
“We will allow those who have bought tickets to enter [the festival] for free on any day during the corresponding session,” it added, meaning each ticket would be valid for one additional entry.