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A brand-new hot air balloon launched at Disney Springs on February 25, replacing the original Aerophile after a six-day closure that removed the iconic skyline feature without warning.
WDWMagic documented the reopening with an image posted on Facebook showing the replacement balloon flying above the shopping district. The new balloon matches the original’s appearance and specifications, custom-built by Paris-based Aérophile S.A.
Original Balloon Removed Without Notice
Credit: Disney Springs
On February 19, our friends at Inside the Magic reported that construction crews had completely removed the balloon and basket and had positioned heavy equipment on the platform. A digital sign blamed “maintenance” for the sudden closure, but Walt Disney World Resort issued no statement and left incorrect operating hours on its website.
The six-day closure was a swift turnaround for swapping an entire hot air balloon system. The efficiency suggests Disney scheduled the replacement rather than responding to an emergency failure.
Identical Design and Capacity
Credit: Disney
The new hand-painted balloon contains 210,000 cubic feet of helium and ascends to 400 feet during flights lasting eight minutes. Up to 29 passengers plus one pilot ride in the basket, with visibility extending 10 miles on clear days.
Adults ages 10+ pay $29.99 while children ages 3-9 cost $24.99. Guests 12 and older ride independently; younger riders need an 18+ companion. Operations halt when winds exceed 22 mph.
Aerophile bills the attraction as the world’s largest hand-painted hot air balloon.
Unexplained Replacement at Disney Springs
Credit: Inside the Magic
Why Walt Disney World Resort replaced a working balloon remains unclear. The new balloon’s identical appearance suggests aesthetic updates weren’t the goal. Possible explanations include scheduled balloon rotation, accumulated wear requiring replacement, or proactive maintenance, replacing aging equipment before failure.
The quick swap restored Disney Springs’ signature skyline element after less than a week offline. The balloon serves as a visible landmark across the outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, making its absence noticeable to regular visitors during the brief closure.
Have you ever been on Aerophile at Disney Springs? Share your experience with Disney Tips in the comments!
