Indian Army Hot Air Balloon Expedition Sets Asian Record After 750 km Journey

New Delhi, Dec 2025 : The Indian Army’s Hot Air Ballooning (HAB) Expedition from Bhopal to Pune was formally flagged in at Pune on Wednesday, marking the successful completion of a 750-kilometre journey across Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The expedition has earned a prestigious place in the Asian Book of Records for accomplishing the longest-duration hot air balloon flight in India.

Organised under the aegis of the Indian Army Adventure Wing and executed by the Hot Air Ballooning Node of the EME Centre, Bhopal, the expedition commenced on November 30, 2025. Over the course of the journey, the team navigated diverse landscapes ranging from the expansive Narmada Valley to the rugged heights of the Western Ghats, with scheduled stops at Mhow, Sambhajinagar and Ahilyanagar.

At every halt, the team interacted with local youth, providing them with a rare opportunity to witness hot air ballooning up close. Officials said these engagements were aimed at introducing young minds to adventure sports while highlighting the Indian Army’s role in nurturing courage, curiosity and resilience among the nation’s youth.

A standout achievement of the expedition was its record-setting non-stop hot air balloon flight lasting 8 hours and 44 minutes, a feat that secured its entry into the Asian Book of Records. Officials lauded this milestone as a testament to the team’s discipline, endurance, coordination and deep passion for aviation-based adventure.

Throughout the expedition, team members conducted motivational sessions, demonstrations and outreach initiatives, inspiring students and young aspirants to embrace adventure as a way of life. These interactions emphasised the core values of military service—courage, discipline, teamwork and perseverance—while encouraging youth to consider opportunities within the Armed Forces.

The successful completion of the HAB Expedition stands as a strong reflection of the Indian Army’s continued commitment to adventure sports and experiential learning. By showcasing exceptional skill and determination across challenging terrain and long-duration flights, the team not only strengthened the spirit of adventure within the forces but also ignited enthusiasm among young Indians to push boundaries, pursue excellence and explore future prospects in uniform.