Parabounce

The Parabounce is a balloon-like apparatus created by Stephen Meadows and patented on December 4, 2001 (U.S. 6,325,329[permanent dead link‍]).

[1] The Parabounce incorporates patented features that permit it to be weight balanced and quickly deflated in case of an emergency.

Optional tether lines held by persons serving as the ground crew prevent the balloon from floating out of control.

Once aloft, the pilot can float and glide for distances up to a quarter mile before gradually descending.

[3] On February 24, 2002, Five Parabounce units were internally lit and supported acrobats for the closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah,[4] On June 29, 2006, Snapple sponsored Parabounce balloon flights at Bryant Park in New York City [5] Parabounce was featured in Inflatable Magazine[permanent dead link‍] on June/July 2003 pg 46-47 Gas Balloon 1.

Ramirez, Anthony (June 30, 2006) 'For a Spot of Tea, They Offered Balloons on a Cloudy Day', New York Times.