Joint Media Statement from PBAA and ABF

Saturday 7th January 2012

The Professional Ballooning Association of Australia (PBAA) and the Australian Ballooning Federation (ABF) are deeply saddened by the tragic events which occurred this morning in New Zealand and both organisations extend their deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those involved.

The accident is currently being investigated by the New Zealand authorities and we will await their findings. We will scrutinise their report to see if any further improvements can be made to enhance the safety of Australian operations.

We are proud of our safety record over the past 20 years and the Australian ballooning industry has developed a strong reputation for safety as today hot air ballooning in Australia is conducted under of the world's most stringent regulatory regimes.

For media enquiries, please contact the PBAA and ABF spokesman Damien Crock on 0412 066 666.

Instructor Training Course

On the 8^th and 9^th March 2010 CASA conducted a two half day Instructor training program in Canberra. The course which was delivered by staff from CASA's Flight Testing and Training Office was attended by 28 Instructors from the Professional Ballooning Association of Australia and Australian Ballooning Federation. The course content was developed in consultation with representatives from the Professional Ballooning Association of Australia.

Feedback following the course was very positive and it is hoped that this type of activity will be held at least annually.

M1 Motorway Operational Risk Assessment Released

10-02-2010

The Professional Balooning Association of Australia today released details of the risk assessment of balloon operations near the M1 motorway in SE QLD. Member operators were involved in the comprehensive risk assessment and have agreed to implement a number of strategies to assure the safety of operations into the future.