Organiser promises refunds, apologises over Hong Kong hot-air balloon fiasco

A trouble-plagued hot-air balloon festival in Hong Kong cancelled the final session of the four-day event and a related concert on Sunday because of an approaching storm but did not offer an apology.

Less than 1½ hours before the 4.30pm start of the sunset session of the AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong at the Central harbourfront on Sunday, the organiser announced on its Facebook page that the entire activity had been cancelled.

The organiser, Grand Events Asia, cited the looming No 8 typhoon signal to be issued between 9pm and midnight with Tropical Storm Tapah nearing the city. The Observatory had issued the No 3 signal in the early hours of Sunday, resulting in the organiser also cancelling the morning session.

For the safety of attendees, performers and staff, the bad weather had prompted the cancellation of the balloon display and an associated concert, the organiser said, referring to the evening session that was scheduled to run until 10.30pm.

“Detailed refund arrangements will be announced on official platforms as soon as possible,” Grand Events Asia said. “Thank you for your understanding and support.”

The concert on Sunday night was supposed to feature singer Leo Ku Kui-kei.