
BRUCE COMSTOCK


Adventures
Flying, Making and
Competing in Balloons
Six Miles Up
In 1995 the International Aeronautic Federation created a program to recognize defined flight achievements by balloon pilots. I realized that I had completed all but one of these -- a flight to 9,000 meters (about 30,000 feet) above sea level. I decided to make such a flight. In May 1995 I ascended to 30,840 feet above sea level, where I was above almost three quarters of the earth's atmosphere, and became just the second person in the world to complete all the defined flights.
Click amidst the first image to be able to read the photo captions.

We arrive at Albion, Michigan Airport several hours before sunrise.

After we inflate the balloon, I visually check all the internal rigging.

I share a light moment after the flight with Andy Baird.

We arrive at Albion, Michigan Airport several hours before sunrise.