Delhi residents might soon have the opportunity to float above the city in hot-air balloons as the City Development Authority (DDA) is planning to launch recreational balloon rides at two sites – Yamuna Sports Complex, Surajmal Vihar and Commonwealth Games Village, near Akshardham.

According to DDA officials, two locations were strategically selected to start the project. The DDA has invited tenders from private companies to operate the rides under a revenue-sharing model. Each operator will have a designated area of 60 by 60 meters for balloon rides, with specific locations determined based on mutually agreed-upon days and times.

Four hours of flying time will be allotted each day according to the proposal. Depending on demand, firms may request temporary extensions. The site will be run under a three-year licence, which could be extended to a total of nine years if successful.

Under the agreement’s terms, the companies will be allowed to advertise on the balloons, creating another platform for brand awareness. The private companies will determine the ticket prices for balloon rides, but the DDA has asked them to price the tickets at reasonable prices that are affordable for residents and visitors.

The Commonwealth Games Village, covering 100 acres along the Yamuna River, was originally constructed to host the athletes during the 2010 Commonwealth Games. It is also near the Akshardham temple, a popular tourist attraction. The Yamuna Sports Complex is also designed for hosting events during the Commonwealth Games and is located in Surajmal Vihar, East Delhi.

By opening these large and under-utilised spaces up to adventure tourism, the DDA is trying to generate revenue, create tourism demand, and create new opportunities for the public to experience and enjoy their capital’s unique landscape.