Record Breaking Passenger Rides Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons
Hot Air Balloon Tourism Booming in Turkey
The 2024 Annual Report of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure revealed exciting news for hot air balloon enthusiasts in Turkey. According to the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (SHGM), there are now seven regions in Turkey where tourists can enjoy the unique experience of flying in a hot air balloon.
Currently, there are 71 businesses operating in these regions, with a total of 441 balloons taking to the skies. Popular destinations for hot air balloon flights include Nevsehir-Capadocia, Denizli-Pamukkale, Kayseri-Soganli, Nevsehir-Cat, Antalya-Aspendos, Aksaray-Ihlara, and Afyonkarahisar-Frig valleys.
Last year alone, there were 43,283 hot air balloon flights in Turkey, serving a record-breaking number of tourists. The total number of passengers reached 933,195, marking a 25 percent increase compared to the previous year and breaking all-time records.
In response to the growing demand for hot air balloon flights, the General Directorate is now evaluating requests for flights in new regions. The institution carries out rigorous audit activities to ensure the safety of these flights, with 348 balloon pilots inspected in 2024. Additionally, pre-flight checks and control flights are also conducted to maintain safety standards.
Furthermore, Turkey has made significant strides in the certification and production of civilian aerial vehicles. The country has successfully obtained aircraft certification capabilities and infrastructure, allowing for domestic certification procedures. The first domestic design, the Hürkuş Training Aircraft, has received certification, along with the hot air balloon. The certification activities for domestic aircraft and parts, including the Gökbey Helicopter, are ongoing in various fields.
Moreover, Turkey has started producing hot air balloons domestically and has even exported them to countries like Rwanda, Ghana, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Qatar, South Korea, Japan, Mexico, and Jordan.
With an increase in the number of technical personnel and certified pilots, the hot air balloon tourism industry in Turkey is poised for further growth and success. As of last year, there were 387 certified balloon pilots and 710 technical personnel, representing an 8.5 percent increase from the previous year.
Overall, Turkey’s hot air balloon tourism sector is thriving, offering tourists a unique and unforgettable experience high above the country’s stunning landscapes.
