Man who died falling from hot air balloon had bought flight experience

A man who died after falling from a hot air balloon was a 33-year-old from Watford, police have said.

He was reported to have fallen at about 9.20am on Friday near Newpound Common, Wisborough Green, West Sussex.

After a search using drones, officers and dogs, his body was found in a field at about 1.50pm, Sussex Police said.

The 33-year-old was among 16 passengers and a pilot on the Virgin Balloon Flight from Billingshurst, West Sussex, to Dunsfold, Surrey, and had bought the flight experience, the force said.

Police said his family has been informed.

Virgin Balloon Flights’ website said it operates flights from its back-up site in Dunsfold for excursions over the North and South Downs.

Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating said: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go to the family of the man and everyone on the flight. We are offering them specialist support at this time.

“The man’s death is not being treated as suspicious and we are completing an investigation on behalf of the coroner.”

A Virgin Balloon Flights spokesperson says: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a passenger incident occurred on Friday morning.

“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the individual’s family at this incredibly difficult time. We are also deeply mindful of the experience of all passengers involved, and their wellbeing and peace of mind remain a priority.

“We kindly ask that privacy is respected, as the welfare and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern.

“We are working closely with, and fully supporting, the relevant authorities as they carry out their investigation.”