Balloonists land unexpectedly in area
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BY ALGIS J. LAUKAITIS / Lincoln Journal Star
Two men trying to set a transcontinental record unexpectedly landed their helium balloon Wednesday morning near Crete. No injuries were reported, said Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner.
The adventurers told Deputy Sheriff Andy Miller they had a mechanical problem and were aiming for a safe landing near the Crete Airport.
Instead, they landed their gondola and balloon near a tree line on the south edge of Nebraska 33 between Southwest 100th and Southwest 114th streets after 8 a.m.
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“This is a serious attempt,” Wagner said. “They got the logistical equipment they need.”
Miller told Wagner the men had a satellite phone, oxygen, GPS unit and were dressed appropriately for a high-altitude flight in winter.
The men reportedly told Miller they were flying at about 18,000 feet.
It’s not clear where they were flying from — or to.
The sheriff’s department received a call about 8:30 a.m. The white helium ballon was seen above Wilber by at least two people before it landed.
Why try for a transcontinental record in winter?
The winds are stronger, the two men told Miller.
Reach Algis J. Laukaitis at (402) 473-7243 or alaukaitis@journalstar.com.
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