British explorer sets Atlantic crossing record

British explorer David Hempleman-Adams has today become the first open gondola hot-air pilot to successfully cross the Atlantic.

The BBC reported this morning that the hot-air balloon crossed the southwestern tip of Ireland this morning at around 8.30am on day three of the record attempt and was looking for a safe location to land.

However, as weather conditions in Ireland were not favourable this morning, Hempleman-Adams was reported to be attempting to gain altitude possibly with the intention of making the European mainland.

It is understood that the adventurer has been in communication with air traffic controllers in Shannon, as he has experienced problems with his communication equipment and may try to make for Scandinavia.

This is the third attempt by the Wiltshire explorer to cross the Atlantic. Two earlier attempts had to be abandoned, the first due to technical problems and the second due to adverse weather conditions.

(SP)