Tower Kings Detail Hot Air Balloon Removal from Longview Radio Tower

A Unique Challenge in the Sky

In the small town of Longview, Texas, a unique situation unfolded when a hot air balloon became entangled with a radio tower. The incident required the expertise of a specialized team from Fort Worth to safely resolve the issue. The company involved, Tower King, is known for its experience in high-altitude operations, and their team includes Marshall Salsman and his nephew Adrian Salsman, who have spent years working at great heights.

Preparing for the Task

The first step in tackling the problem was setting up the necessary equipment. Adrian explained that they climbed up using a rope and pulled the cable up, rigging the winch and the pan—essentially a metal basket used as a work platform. This setup was completed the day before the actual operation began. Over 900 feet above the ground, Adrian captured video footage of the process, providing a visual record of the challenging task ahead.

Successfully Lowering the Balloon

On the day of the operation, the team's primary goal was to lower the basket. They reached the site and started by cutting the balloon loose, securing it so it wouldn’t drift away. Then, they rigged the basket and sent it down smoothly. Adrian described the process as going "really smooth," highlighting the teamwork and preparation that went into the task.

Experience Meets Challenge

Marshall, who has spent thirty years in the air, emphasized that each job presents its own set of challenges. He noted that every tower, site, and project is different, making adaptability a key part of their work. This particular job marked his first encounter with a balloon entanglement, which he found both awkward and difficult.

"The gathering up of the balloon envelope was awkward and a little bit difficult," Marshall said. He described the moment when the balloon wrapped around him, creating an uncomfortable situation due to the wind. To prepare for this challenge, he watched a video on how balloons are packed up, which proved helpful during the operation.

Navigating Obstacles

Marshall mentioned that the balloon was caught on some antennae mounts and a guy wire. Once he managed to get the balloon moving, it took approximately 14 minutes to reel in the canopy. Despite the difficulties, he remained calm and focused, describing the experience as "another day at the office" with a humorous twist, adding, "You know if the office is in or above the clouds."

Completing the Task

The team started their work at 9:30 A.M. and successfully brought the balloon to the ground by 1 P.M. After completing the main task, they returned to the tower to inspect it for any potential damage. This thorough approach ensured that not only was the balloon removed safely, but also that the tower was checked for any issues that might have arisen during the operation.

This incident highlights the importance of skilled professionals in handling unexpected situations, especially when working at such high altitudes. It also underscores the need for careful planning and execution in tasks that involve both technical expertise and physical courage.