The 22nd edition of the Philippine International Balloon Fiesta – the longest-running sports aviation event in Asia – will take place at the Omni Aviation Complex in Clark, Pampanga from February 8-11.

An explosion of colour, this year’s four-day event will include a raft of different air sports, including paragliding pilots and skydivers as well as 26 hot air balloonists from around the world.

For the first time, the 2018 Balloon Fiesta, which is open to the public at a ticket price of 500 Philippine Pesos, will also welcome the UK-based AeroSuperBatics Wingwalking Team.

The resulting aviation extravaganza is expected to draw a crowd of at least 135,000 spectators to Pampanga.

Event organiser Joy Roa said: “The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta was born out of a love for aviation.

“The same passion has made the event what it is today - A Weekend of everything that flies, a big spectator event that showcases all kinds of aviation disciplines.

“A special sight to watch out for this year is the world renowned AeroSuperBatics Wingwalkers, performing for the first time in the Philippines.”

As a flagship air sports event in Asia, the Fiesta will also be the setting for the first 2018 Airsport Federation of Asia (AFA) meeting, which takes place from February 6-8.

FAI President of Honour Dr. John Grubbström and FAI Executive Director Agust Gudmundsson will represent FAI at this meeting.

FAI President Frits Brink said: “Raising the visibility of air sports in Asia is one of our main goals this year.

“So the FAI is proud to be associated with this wonderful event, which looks set to be even bigger and more colourful this year.”

Photo Credit: Phillballoonfest / Juan Manila Express