Gloucestershire's global leader in precision engineering, Renishaw, has launched a new accessible hot air balloon.
Renishaw has worked with Exclusive Ballooning, also based in Gloucestershire, to create the accessible balloon.
The new balloon, named G-MEAS, an aircraft registration number with a nod to Renishaw’s expertise in measurement technology, has a dedicated wheelchair-accessible basket manufactured by Bristol-based Cameron Balloons.
Unlike standard hot air balloon baskets, which require passengers to climb over the edge of a 3 to 4 ft high basket to enter, the design for G-MEAS makes it one of the very few balloons in the world to offer accessible flights.
It means those with limited mobility can board safely and comfortably for commercial flights in the UK.
G-MEAS was built in Gloucestershire, just a few miles from Renishaw’s New Mills headquarters, by Diamond Hot Air Balloons; the new manufacturing arm of Exclusive Ballooning in Berkeley.
Diamond Balloons is the first UK certified aircraft manufacturer since Brexit, with G-MEAS being one of its first balloons to take to the skies.
Head of communications at Renishaw, Chris Pockett, said: 'This partnership reflects our dedication to community support and inclusivity, ensuring that more people can enjoy the unique experience of floating above the countryside.
'We are excited to see G-MEAS take to the skies, continuing our aim to break down barriers and provide opportunities for all.'
Andrew Holly, operations director at Exclusive Ballooning, said: 'We have always loved working with Renishaw and share in their passion for inclusivity.
'We were so grateful for their support when we began our journey into manufacturing and it is fantastic to see G-MEAS in the air.
'We look forward to continuing to make the skies accessible for everyone, with our specially adapted basket.'
Certified by the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority last year, G-MEAS was officially launched this May 2025 from Renishaw’s New Mills headquarters near Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire.
It will appear at summer events across the UK during the year, including The Lord Mayor’s Hot Air Balloon Regatta® in London, the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, the Carmarthen Showground, the Bath & West Showground, Broadlands Estate in Hampshire and Chepstow Racecourse in Monmouthshire.
