In preparation for the 2022 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, PNM is hosting a safety demonstration on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022 at 9 am for first responders, Balloon Fiesta safety officials, and local media to discuss what to do if a hot air balloon is caught in power lines.

This annual demonstration will cover the dangers present, how PNM responds and works with first-responders in this situation, and provide safety tips for everyone, including the general public.

Raymond Bair, a member of the Balloon Fiesta Board of Directors and experienced pilot, will discuss this  safety issue from the pilot’s perspective.

This demonstration was given last year as well, but a nasty balloon accident happened anyway.

The gondola of a balloon, which was carrying five individuals, crashed into power lines, caught fire and slammed into the street. The balloon then detached and floated away. Those five people died from the accident.

This event is a public safety reminder for onlookers and balloon crews to stay away from any balloons caught in power lines and call 911 immediately. This event is not open to the public.