Bill Brennan directs launches as Zebra at Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Bill Brennan helps launch colorful hot air balloons across the sky in Albuquerque. He serves as an official launch director during the mass flight event. About a million people are expected to attend the gathering this year.

The cameras are loaded as crowds watch the balloons dot the pale blue sky. One visitor compared the visual scene to standing inside a forest.

“It’s just like you’re standing out in a forest and the trees just popping up all around you. It’s fantastic. A postcard doesn’t show justice,” one visitor to the event said.

Brennan has served in the launch director role for nine years. Spectators often take pictures of him on the field.

“There’s always something different,” Brennan said. “They’re always fun. I’m like a little kid every time.”

Curious children frequently ask questions about the equipment. One visitor said kids often ask what the propane flames do on Albuquerque fields.

Crowds share a bond over the flights. “I think part of it’s just the general feeling of being here amongst other people who are so fascinated with the event,” another visitor at the event said.

Launch directors are volunteers who coordinate flight traffic. These officials wear black and white stripes to stay visible on the field. They help balloons take off safely in an orderly fashion.

Spectators continue to gather outdoors to watch the flights. More pictures were taken than there were people watching. The colorful tradition continues across Albuquerque.