Context and objective
The Turpial Expedition – Amazon was a pioneering adventure undertaken in January 2001 with the objective of flying over an area of the Amazon rainforest in a hot air balloon that had not been previously explored from the air using this means.
The purpose was ambitious: to achieve the maximum possible flight time and distance in an extreme environment, combining a spirit of exploration and technical rigor.
Preparation and planning
The project began to take shape in the 1990s and required approximately one year of specific preparation.
We formed a team of 13 people passionate about ballooning and nature. We used three 77’s model balloons adapted to the harsh conditions of the jungle, with particularly complex logistics.
The operational base was a riverboat that served as the central coordination point. In addition, we had support vessels and sufficient gas reserves to ensure the continuity of operations.
Flight development
During the expedition we made 24 flights in very diverse conditions.
The landings occurred in very different environments:
- Over water
- On river beaches
- Deep in the jungle
- Even on the base ship
Each flight required meticulous planning, constant coordination with the support team, and the ability to adapt to a changing and demanding environment.
What this expedition gave me
The experience in the Amazon rainforest marked an important point in my career as a pilot.
Operating in an environment without infrastructure, with river logistics and variable weather conditions, reinforces the importance of technical preparation, prudence and teamwork.
Participating in this expedition with the Globus Kontiki team was an experience that combined exploration, technique and passion for flying, values that I continue to apply in every operation.
