Ballon de Paris Generali
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Nestled within the verdant expanse of Parc André Citroën, this tethered helium balloon serves as an extraordinary experience above the city of Paris. Initially launched in 1999, the Ballon de Paris Generali has not only provided an intriguing touristic opportunity but has also played a significant role in other sectors. Renowned for its capacity to gauge urban air quality, the balloon has been used in several environmental studies aimed at understanding and improving the atmospheric conditions in urban areas. You can also currently monitor the air quality of Paris in real time on their website.
The balloon’s internal lighting system changes its exterior color in real time to reflect Paris’s air pollution levels. The colors range from green (good air quality) to orange (poor) and red (bad). Additionally, an independent lighting system using LED panels, particularly visible at night on the lower part of the balloon, displays local air quality near traffic using the same color code.
Ascend to approximately 150 meters into the air, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the city. The balloon, containing 6,000 m³ (210,000 cu ft) of helium, is secured to the ground by a cable operated with a hydroelectric winch. This tourist attraction can accommodate up to 30 passengers, with a total weight capacity of around 2,500 kg (5,500 lb), rising to a height of 150 m (490 ft) above Paris. The balloon itself stands 32 m (105 ft) tall and has a diameter of 22 m (72 ft).
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