***WORLD EXCLUSIVE***
CARIBOU, ME — SEPTEMBER 12: Jonathan Trappe takes to the air in his balloon cluster system on September 12, 2013 in Caribou, Maine.
A fearless adventurer has taken to the skies in a bid to become the first man to successfully cross the Atlantic Ocean in a cluster balloon system. American, Jonathan Trappe, launched at 6:20 am local time (11:20 am GMT) from Maine, USA as he began a 2,500 mile journey across the ocean. He was lifted into the air in a specially crafted boat, by 370 giant balloons filled with helium, just like in the Disney movie ‘Up’. Its not the first time Jonathan has crossed open seas. In May 2010 he became the first man to fly over the English Channel in a cluster balloon system. In 2011 he then became the first person ever to fly over the Alps. This latest challenge could take Jonathan up to six days to complete. Floating at altitudes between 18,000 — 25,000 ft, he will be relying on a team of meteorologists to guide and advise him on changeable weather fronts.
PHOTOGRAPH BY Paul Cyr / Barcroft USA
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Reporters / Barcroft *** Local Caption *** 01559407