Government spokesman responds to media enquiries
************************************************
AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong is a commercial event. It is not organised, co-organised or funded by the Government. The content and arrangements of the event are designed and implemented by the organiser.
Following the organiser's notification to organise a hot air balloon event, relevant government departments have communicated with the organiser through multiple meetings. They provided professional advice, details and requirements for applying for necessary licences and permits, and participated in on-site hot air balloon demonstrations.
The organiser bears responsibility for ensuring the event's safe execution, including conducting and arranging demonstration to ensure the event complies with all licence and permit specifications and requirements to secure approvals from relevant departments.
The organiser conducted an on-site hot air balloon demonstration on August 20, but the results were unsatisfactory. Relevant departments observed that the hot air balloon operation was highly susceptible to wind strength and direction, with instances of difficulty in stabilising control occurring on-site, posing significant safety risks.
Throughout the approval process, the government prioritised safety while endeavouring to facilitate the smooth staging of the event.
The organiser conducted another demonstration yesterday (September 3, the day before the event). After cautious and comprehensive consideration of public safety, relevant government department approved the display of hot air balloons. However, given insufficient time to conduct another demonstration of passenger carriage to assess its safety, the approval does not include the carriage of passengers.
Ends/Thursday, September 4, 2025
Issued at HKT 21:41
Issued at HKT 21:41
NNNN