Dunnington also said fire resulting from contact with power lines was probably the biggest risk for hot air balloonists.

CNN: How safe is hot air ballooning?

In 1978, three American balloonists, Ben Abruzzo, Maxie Anderson and Larry Newman, completed the first crossing of the North Atlantic in their balloon, Double Eagle II.

CNN: Monday,

International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu (August 11-19): Every August, more than 125 balloonists descend on Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, midway between Montreal and Vermont, for the largest hot-air festival in Canada.

CNN: 7 breathtaking ballooning adventures

Fueled by Albuquerque's crisp fall climate and predictable air currents that allow balloonists to control their flights, the Balloon Fiesta attracts some 700 balloons from more than 50 countries.

CNN: 7 breathtaking ballooning adventures

Some 100 balloonists, including a slew who man special-shaped airships like dragons and bald eagles, converge on the region's parks and airports to launch against a backdrop of mountains awash in fall foliage.

CNN: 7 breathtaking ballooning adventures