Re/max "sale Away" Balloon To Debut At 2006 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

ALBUQUERQUE (Tuesday, September 26, 2006) - Since 1978, RE/MAX hot air balloons have thrilled children of all ages and the newest addition to the fleet of more than 90 balloons is a unique design aptly named "Sale Away." This 41 foot tall giant will make its debut during the 2006 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, October 6-15.

Three seamstresses worked full-time for three weeks, using 11 miles of thread, to stitch together more than 3,390 yards of fabric to make Sale Away. The balloon envelope alone weighs 589 pounds, is 54.5 feet on all sides and boasts a volume of 120,000 cubic feet with lift capability for two passengers and a pilot. The diameter of the opening at the bottom is 11.81 feet and the internal air is heated with flame from 30 gallons of propane.

Two gas-powered fans, each equipped with 24-inch propellers, are used for inflating the balloon prior to lift off and each of the RE/MAX balloon images on all four sides are 21 feet tall. A crew of eight is required for inflation and launch along with a flat open area of approximately 40,000 square feet. Sale Away is 27 times taller than a standard RE/MAX yard sign and large enough to cover five average-sized American homes. Sale Away travels to celebrations, promotions and charity events in its own custom designed van and is accompanied by a 12-foot-square inflatable cold air display.

Chief Pilot, Russ McLain and his crew take every opportunity to help kids of all ages learn about hot air ballooning at each appearance.

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