Whether you can’t afford a steerable US$35,000 personal hot air balloon, are afraid of heights, or simply live in a region where personal hot air balloons aren’t allowed, you’ll appreciate that there’s still a way to enjoy the thrill of hot air ballooning. Folks, meet the Radio-Controlled Mini FlyDOO Balloon.
That’s right. The same folks who made full-sized hot air balloons steerable with an electric-powered Vectored Thrust Unit have made a scale replica—so you can experience piloting a FlyDOO without mortgaging your house or needing a massive airspace. Better yet, it’s totally suitable even if you have a fear of heights.
The Radio-Controlled Mini FlyDOO Balloon comes with all the details you’d expect from a full-sized FlyDOO, plus a few perks. Not only is it a relaxing hobby for balloon and RC model enthusiasts, but it also serves as a communication and marketing tool for corporations—you can even customize the branding on the balloon. Moreover, it’s useful as a familiarization and pedagogic tool for flight schools.
The RC balloon features a 24-gore (fabric panels) design, made from lightweight nylon-coated ripstop fabric with Nomex panels, a Nomex scoop, 6 mm double-folded French seams, and a closed-top envelope with an optional real parachute vent. Each envelope includes a crown line, all clamped stainless steel flying wires, quick links, and a quick bag—an adorable replica of the full-size version.
The Radio-Controlled Mini FlyDOO Balloon may be a scale model, but it’s not small by any means. There are two models: the WeDOO60-24, with a volume of 60 cubic meters (2,119 cubic feet) and a weight of 4.9 kilograms (11 lbs), and the WeDOO80-24, with a volume of 80 cubic meters (2,826 cubic feet) and a weight of 5.6 kilograms (12 lbs).
Before you go ga-ga over this super cool RC model, just know—it’s an expensive hobby. The WeDOO60-24 will set you back €2,999 plus tax (~US$3,430), while the WeDOO80-24 goes for €3,399 plus tax (~US$3,890).
Images: FlyDOO.
