The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) has proudly played a key role in making history inside Tarangire National Park, after successfully coordinating and overseeing a remarkable hot air balloon flight by Dr. Allie Dunnington. The flight officially placed Tanzania as the 123rd country in Allie’s global attempt to set a new world record for solo balloon flights.

The early morning journey over Tarangire was no ordinary flight. It became the first ever solo hot air balloon mission to take place within the park’s boundaries an accomplishment made possible only after TCAA carefully reviewed every safety, technical, and regulatory detail required for operating in such a sensitive wildlife environment.

TCAA confirmed that the mission met all national and international aviation safety standards. The Authority worked closely with conservation teams and security agencies to ensure the flight was conducted smoothly and responsibly, without disturbing the park’s unique ecosystem.

Alongside TCAA.

For Allie, this flight carried meaning far beyond the technical achievement. As she continues her mission to fly a hot air balloon across countries around the world, she described her experience over Tarangire as one of the most breathtaking moments of her journey. The sweeping views of wildlife, ancient baobabs, and golden Savannah gave her a perspective of Tanzania she said she will never forget.

Allie’s world record attempt also carries a personal dimension. In the background of her journey is the legacy of her late husband, Phil Dunnington, a pioneering balloonist who once flew over 127 countries. Although his achievement serves only as historical context, Allie’s mission today stands firmly on her own dedication, skill, and spirit of adventure. She navigates a single seat hot air balloon, lifted by a propane cylinder and a gas burner simple equipment powering an extraordinary global expedition.

Women in Aviation Tanzania also offered helpful support adding an extra layer of encouragement and coordination to the effort.

This achievement adds yet another accolade to Tanzania’s aviation profile, showcasing the country’s strong regulatory systems, commitment to safety, and openness to supporting unique international initiatives that help promote tourism, aviation innovation, and global collaboration.