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Credit: EMLpotography, FlickrOn Thursday, February 19, a Disney Springs attraction failed to open alongside the rest of Walt Disney World Resort‘s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Construction crews were spotted in the area, performing unexpected maintenance.
Unannounced Closure at Disney Springs
Aerophile, the hot air balloon ride at Disney Springs, was noticeably absent from the area’s skyline on Thursday morning. The attraction typically operates all day, unless inclement weather forces it to close, so its disappearance was unusual. The ticket booth was closed, and an electronic sign informed visitors that the hot air balloon was not operating due to “maintenance.” Rolling planters blocked the walkway to the loading area.
On Facebook, WDWNT shared a photo of construction crews working on the Aerophile loading platform. Several pieces of heavy equipment, including a crane, have been moved into the area. The entire hot air balloon and rider basket are missing, and a ladder, wooden pallet, and other building materials are sitting on the platform where the attraction normally rests.
Walt Disney World Resort has not issued a statement about the Aerophile refurbishment or indicated when it will end. However, the Central Florida vacation destination’s website still lists the Disney Springs attraction as operating from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The official calendar does not list any planned closures or maintenance periods for the ride in the near future.
More About Aerophile
The Aerophile balloon was custom-built for Walt Disney World Resort by Paris-based company Aérophile S.A. It’s the world’s largest hand-painted hot air balloon, filled with 210,000 cubic feet of helium. The basket can hold 29 riders and one certified pilot, and soars to 400 feet during the eight-minute journey. Visibility from the top can be as far as ten miles on a clear day!
A single ride on Aerophile costs $29.99 for adults and $24.99 for children aged three to nine. The hot air balloon will not fly if the winds exceed 22 mph.
Will the Aerophile refurbishment affect your upcoming Walt Disney World Resort vacation? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!