Students in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho are getting an up-close look at hot-air balloons as part of the Balloons Aloft event. Nearly 200 pilots are visiting schools, showing their balloons and teaching students how they take flight. The event started in 2005 as a fun way to kick off the Balloon Fiesta, allowing students, parents and staff to meet pilots and crews while learning about the science behind hot-air balloons. Aimee Sewell, assistant principal at Janet Kahn School of Integrated Arts, said the kids love it and are in awe when they see the fire. Students have been studying hot-air balloons in class, and on Friday two balloons will be at the school, with some students even getting to step into the basket. Sewell noted it’s fun for the children to see what they’ve been learning about.
