Thin Line Ballooning LLC

Some good news after our August 1 incident! 🎈

After having some time to carefully inspect everything, we’re very happy to report that the balloon envelope itself came through the incident just fine!

There are a few small parts that will need to be replaced, but nothing that will keep her down for long. Unfortunately, the basket didn’t fare quite as well and will need to be completely replaced.

Considering how things could have turned out, we’ll gladly take a damaged basket and a short parts list.

Most importantly, our operator is doing well, nobody else was injured, and the balloon will fly again. ❤️

We also can’t say enough about the support, kind words, and well wishes we’ve received since the incident. It has meant a lot to both of us and everyone involved with Thin Line Ballooning.

A new basket, a few replacement parts, and a little work in the shop—and we’ll be back in the air before you know it. 🎈

You can’t keep a good balloon down.

Statement Regarding the August 1 Incident

Earlier today, August 1, an incident occurred involving one of our RC hot air balloons during the Suncook Valley Hot Air Balloon Rally.

We are thankful to report that the incident resulted in only minor injuries to one of our operators. The operator was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. No spectators or other crew members were injured.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Pittsfield Fire and Rescue Department and the Pittsfield Police Department for their quick response and professionalism in assisting at the scene.

We also want to apologize to everyone attending the rally for the concern and disruption caused by this incident. The safety of our operators, crew members, spectators, and fellow participants remains our highest priority.

We appreciate everyone’s concern, understanding, and well wishes for our operator’s speedy recovery.

There will be no further comments at this time.

Thank you.

🚛 Packed, strapped, and ready to roll! 🎈

The trailer is loaded, the truck is hooked up, and we’re officially headed to the Suncook Valley Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally!

From balloons and burners to fans, tools, and everything else it takes to get us in the air, it’s amazing how quickly a trailer fills up. Now all that’s left is to hit the road and hope for some beautiful flying weather!

A huge thank you to Maine Equipment Rentals for providing us with an amazing trailer and for having such a fantastic sales team. They made the whole process easy, and we couldn’t be happier with the setup. We truly appreciate the support!

If you’re planning on attending the rally, be sure to stop by and say hello! We’d love to meet everyone, answer questions, and, of course, get Lil’ Sq**rt out flying.

Who’s coming to the Suncook Valley Hot Air Balloon Rally this weekend? Let us know in the comments—we’re excited to see familiar faces and make some new friends! 🎈😊

Countdown to Balloon Rally: Meet Today's Pilot!

Each day leading up to the 44th Annual Suncook Valley Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally, we'll introduce you to one of the incredible pilots and beautiful balloons that will be joining us in Pittsfield.

Today's featured pilot is Matthew Conklin, flying RC Balloons Brave & Lil' Sq**rt, sponsored by Suncook Valley Rotary Club

Be sure to come say hello during Balloon Rally Weekend—you'll have a chance to meet many of our pilots, see their balloons up close, and, weather permitting, watch them take flight over Pittsfield!

July 31 - August 2, 2026
Drake Field • Pittsfield, NH

www.nhballoonrally.org

🚒 Meet Lil’ Sq**rt! 🚒

Lil’ Sq**rt is the newest member of Matt and Josh’s RC hot air balloon family! This one-of-a-kind RC special shape hot air balloon is designed to look like a classic fire truck and is sure to turn heads wherever he flies.

Standing approximately 20 feet tall and stretching nearly 40 feet long, Lil’ Sq**rt may be smaller than a full-size hot air balloon, but he’s built the same way. Powered by propane, he flies using real hot air, just like his full-sized counterparts—only controlled from the ground by radio.

Matt and Josh travel with their RC balloons to share the magic of hot air ballooning in a unique and interactive way. Whether you’re a lifelong balloon enthusiast or seeing one for the very first time, they love answering questions, talking about how RC ballooning works, and putting smiles on faces of all ages.

Be sure to stop by, say hello, and watch Lil’ Sq**rt take to the skies. You never know when this little fire truck will be called into action! 🚒🎈

Although we encountered some flight cancellations, this weekend has been exceptionally memorable. A highlight was flying with the festival's largest balloon.