Hot air balloon flights in Cappadocia grounded for 13 days due to adverse weather
An aerial view of the snow covered fairy chimneys after snowfall in Cappadocia, which is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its chimney rocks, in Nevsehir, Türkiye, Feb. 11, 2025. (AA Photo)
Hot air balloon tours, one of the most popular activities for tourists visiting Türkiye’s iconic Cappadocia region, have been suspended for 13 consecutive days because of unfavorable weather.
Winter weather halts balloon rides
The breathtaking experience of soaring over Cappadocia’s historic valleys, fairy chimneys, and rock formations has been put on hold as winter weather brings strong winds, rain, and thick fog to the region.
Since Feb. 5, flights have been repeatedly postponed, with authorities canceling tours once again for tomorrow because of expected high winds.
UNESCO heritage site impacted
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cappadocia attracts visitors from around the world eager to witness its unique landscape from the sky.
The sight of colorful hot air balloons floating above the valleys is a defining image of the region, but ongoing adverse conditions have kept them grounded.
Safety first: Authorities await favorable conditions
The General Directorate of Civil Aviation’s Nevsehir Coordination Office grants permission for flights only when the weather is deemed safe.
With wind speeds forecasted to remain strong, the suspension of balloon tours will continue until conditions improve.
