Walt Disney World Resort has made a permanent change at the Disney Springs shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Here’s what future visitors to the Central Florida vacation destination need to know.
Recent Closure at Disney Springs
Six days ago, Disney Dining reported that the Aerophile hot air balloon ride had abruptly closed at the Disney Springs lifestyle complex. Construction crews were spotted on the platform where the hot air balloon and its basket usually rest. The ride itself had been removed completely, with heavy equipment in its place.
Walt Disney World Resort didn’t issue a public statement about the closure, and failed to remove Aerophile’s hours from its official website. However, a digital sign outside the attraction notified visitors that the experience was closed for “maintenance.”
Now, we know what Disney had planned for this iconic part of Disney Springs‘ skyline.
New Aerophile Balloon
On February 25, WDWMagic reported that Aerophile had reopened with an all-new hot air balloon. The outlet shared this photo of the new balloon in flight on Facebook:
The new balloon looks identical to its predecessor and was similarly custom-built for Walt Disney World Resort by Paris-based company Aérophile S.A. The hand-painted balloon is filled with 210,000 cubic feet of helium and reaches heights of 400 feet. Its basket holds up to 29 passengers and one pilot.
On a clear day, the view from Aerophile can stretch to 10 miles. The experience costs $29.99 for adults ten and older and $24.99 for children ages three to nine. Guests over twelve can ride alone, but those under twelve must be accompanied by someone eighteen or older.
Aerophile – The World Leader in Balloon Flight is the largest hand-painted hot air balloon in the world. The tethered hot air balloon will not fly if the winds exceed 22 mph.
Is Aerophile worth the price? Share your opinion with Disney Dining in the comments!
