INDIAN ARMY HOT AIR BALLOONING EXPEDITION FROM BHOPAL TO PUNE CREATES A NEW RECORD (Video)
Pune : The Indian Army Hot Air Ballooning (HAB) Expedition from Bhopal to Pune was flagged-in today at Pune.
Conducted under the aegis of the Indian Army Adventure Wing by the Hot Air Ballooning Node at EME Centre, Bhopal, the expedition was flagged off on 30 November 2025. Covering over 750 kilometres, the team traversed varied terrain from the Narmada Valley in Madhya Pradesh to the Western Ghats in Maharashtra with scheduled halts at Mhow, Sambhaji Nagar and Ahilyanagar. At each location, the team interacted with local youth, offering them an opportunity to witness this unique adventure sport and learn about the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering a spirit of exploration and resilience.
A major highlight of the expedition was its record-breaking non-stop Hot Air Baloon flight of 8 hours and 44 minutes, earning a place in the Asian Book of Records for the longest duration Hot Air Balloon flight in India. This remarkable achievement showcases the team’s exceptional professionalism, endurance, teamwork and passion for aviation excellence.
Throughout the expedition, the team actively engaged with students and young aspirants, promoting adventure as a way of life and igniting interest in the Armed Forces. Motivational talks, demonstrations and outreach programmes highlighted the values of courage, discipline and teamwork that define military life.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, congratulated the team for its record-setting accomplishment and lauded their determination, grit and spirit of adventure. He emphasised that such pioneering initiatives strengthen the culture of adventure within the forces and serve as a powerful medium to connect with the youth.
