This NASA image released on October 7, 2010 shows the nose of an inflatable half-scale model of a NASA F/A-18 in front of the NASA Aeronautics exhibit points skyward as a host of hot-air balloons ascend during the 2010 International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, N.M. UPI/Jay Levine/NASA | License Photo
"There's no better way to celebrate the 40th Balloon Fiesta than breaking a world record on our opening day," said John Sena, president of the board for the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. "It was a beautiful day and a signature moment for the world's premier balloon event."
The current record is held by the 12th Lorraine World Air Balloon Festival in Chambley-Bussieres, France, which launched 343 balloons earlier this year.
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the largest gathering of balloons and balloonists in the world, held the record in 2000 by launching 329 balloons in 1 hour.
