Our own Andy Baird qualified to participate in the World Air Games last December.  Held in Dubai, the event hosted competitors from most air sports, including ballooning.

The flying area presented some unique challenges, but also provided the backdrop for some spectacular flying.   Here’s a link to the very last flight (not part of the competition) from Dubai’s famous World Islands.  The mission was not only to take off in challenging conditions with surface winds taking us farther away from dry land, but to attempt to land at the closing ceremonies of the Games — located at Sky Dive Dubai, Palm Drop Zone.

Of the 40 or so balloons who ventured out to the islands, a little over half flew, and about a dozen or so were able to navigate their way to the drop zone.  The flight provided some spectacular views, and incredible memories.

Enjoy the video.