Toshiba sponsors successful record ballooning attempt

The world distance record for an AA-06 (37 000 ft3) balloon has been broken by Toshiba-sponsored David Hempleman-Adams by crossing the Atlantic in an open wicker basket. This is the smallest gas balloon ever to attempt this flight, with a basket 4 ft square. The new record is 3434 km His cruising altitude was 10 000 ft at speeds in excess of 40 knots. He barely slept for the four days of the crossing and lived on a diet of pork scratchings and ginger nuts.

Related links:

• www.toshiba-aircon.co.uk/