Balloonist Said to Set Record for Altitude
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An Indian textile millionaire apparently broke the world record for the highest flight in a hot air balloon. The balloonist landed safely after a nearly five-hour flight inside a pressurized cabin.
The record by Vijaypat Singhania, 67, is subject to verification, but his son Gautam Singhania said the 44-ton balloon climbed to 69,852 feet, beating the old mark of slightly less than 65,000.
“When I broke the record, I was euphoric. I screamed quite loudly,” the balloonist said.
The readings from instruments sealed inside the capsule will be submitted to Guinness World Records.
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