Hot Air Balloon Tourism Soars in 2024: 933,000 Domestic and International Tourists Take to the Skies

Interest in hot air balloons continues to rise in Cappadocia! Throughout 2024, a record-breaking 933,000 domestic and international tourists took flight, enjoying breathtaking views from the skies.

ANKARA (AA) – Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced that 2024 set a new record for hot air balloon passengers, with 933,000 individuals participating in this unique experience.

In a written statement, Minister Uraloğlu shared statistics on hot air balloon activities for 2024. Highlighting the secure flight training provided by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM), he emphasized that Turkey now ranks among the top countries globally in terms of air traffic and flying days in hot air balloon tourism. “Last year was incredibly productive for hot air balloon tourism,” Uraloğlu stated.

Record Growth in Balloon Tourism: 43,000 Flights Across 8 Regions

Regarding the flights conducted in 2024, Uraloğlu said, “A total of 43,000 hot air balloon flights were carried out in eight regions, including Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Soğanlı, Çat, Ihlara, Şanlıurfa Göbeklitepe, Afyonkarahisar, and Antalya. These flights served 933,000 domestic and international passengers, breaking the all-time record for balloon passengers. Compared to 2023, the number of balloon passengers increased by 25%.”

Over 80% of Flights Conducted in Cappadocia

Turkey currently hosts 71 licensed hot air balloon operators certified by the SHGM, offering training through six approved institutions to support the growing sector.

Highlighting Cappadocia’s dominance in the industry, Uraloğlu noted, “Over 80% of all flights were conducted in the Cappadocia region.”

He continued, “Turkey’s rising star in tourism, hot air balloon operations, continues to grow each year. As a ministry, we provide every necessary support to this sector. Since 2011, 290,000 flights have been conducted across Turkey, allowing 5.6 million domestic and international passengers to witness the unparalleled beauty of our country.”