Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta floats on

From the Santa Fe New Mexican - Randy Rogers, of Albuquerque, ties the top onto his 250,000 cubic foot balloon as he prepares to launch during day four of the 41st annual Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque.  After a balloon ride at the fiesta when he was 29, Rogers knew he wanted to be a balloon pilot.  He has been flying at the fiesta for the last 33 years.  Today, his basket was filled to capacity with 12 passengers for a one-hour flight. During the 10-mile trip, the balloon reached an altitude of 2,600 feet with a top speed of 22 miles per hour, according to the app on Rogers' iPhone. See more

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta floats on