Mosel Ballon-Fiesta

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Bericht aus dem englischen Ballon Magazin "AEROSTAT", Ende 2009

The 2009 Mosel Balloon Fiesta

For the third year running, Föhren airport (just north of the Mosel valley and about 20 km from the historic Roman town of Trier) was the setting for the 2009 Mosel Balloon Fiesta. The Fiesta runs from Friday to Sunday and is strongly supported by nearby Schröder Fire Balloons GmbH, Germany’s largest manufacturer of hot air balloons.
My first experience of this balloon fiesta was in 2007 when, after a long drive and overnight crossing from the UK, we arrived at midday Friday at the Schroeder factory. My cramped and weary crew - on the verge of mutiny due to the lack of space in my car - were revived by cold beer at the Schroeder reception. This was followed by a tour of the burner assembly and envelope sewing hangar in the newly expanded modern factory.
In 2007 stayed in the youth hostel in Trier, a fairly comfortable option (apart from one crew member narrowly escaping injury from a falling window frame). And from there we were able to explore the roman remains, make a day trip to Luxembourg and have three excellent flights over the Mosel valley.
I then returned to Trier in 2009, (having missed the event in 2008 due to the birth of my daughter), to find the event had more than doubled in size with over 70 balloons attending. This time we stayed in a small village over looking the lush banks of the Mosel and nestled between rich vines.
The Fiesta was absolutely as enjoyable as the first time. Checking in was quick and friendly, with minimum bureaucracy. Road and Air marked up map extracts were provided in the goody bag, (and full sets are also available to purchase). Refuelling was quick and well organised; the briefing told you everything you need about to know about airspace, the wind up and down the Mosel, and the weather. For those who need it the briefing is also provided in English. After briefing don’t forget to pick up your complementary bottle of cooled post flight Mosel Sekt.
The event is staged in and around Föhren airport, which mainly caters to light aircraft and gliders. Launches are from the side of the runway. Next to the airport is an expanding industrial park whose businesses sponsor the event. The Saturday draws big crowds (around 10 000) and the evening flight is followed by a night glow for those who wish to participate. There is music, beer and sausages, as well as an excellent and filling balloonists buffet complete with sparkling wine from local vineyards. Coffee and sandwiches are also available in the mornings before the briefing.
In both years that I was there, the winds took us from the airport roughly north east and over the Mosel valley. Good steerage usually allows several crossings of the meandering river. The valley itself is steep and covered in vineyards, so special attention is required when flying. However, there are many ideal landing spots on the flat and open plateau areas either side of the valley. It is certainly not the ‘take off and forget’ flying of Metz. If in doubt follow the two local hare balloons (and even try and win the light hearted competition).
If coming from the UK, its probably worth combining the trip with a longer stay in the Mosel area, some flying in Luxembourg or a follow-up trip to Warstein or Lorraine. The whole area is fascinating for its wine, Roman history and traditional villages along the Mosel.

Tom Ellenrieder

Trierischer Volksfreund, 05.09.2009