Organiser of AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong offers additional visit per entrance ticket amid mounting calls for refunds
Hong Kong’s hot-air balloon festival has apologised for suspending its tethered ride after failing to secure a relevant permit in time, while offering those who bought entrance tickets an additional visit to the carnival.
The measure announced by the AIA International Hot Air Balloon Fest Hong Kong on Thursday night came amid mounting calls for refunds by residents, who questioned the organiser’s decision to sell tickets before receiving government approval for the ride.
“We sincerely apologise for any disappointment regarding the tethered rides experience,” the organiser said on its website, referring to the ride that involved securing the hot-air balloon to the ground with cables or ropes.
“We will allow those who have bought tickets to enter [the festival] for free on any day during the corresponding session,” it added, meaning each ticket would be valid for one additional entry.
