Conditions for flying are perfect. The sky is cool and calm with just a slight breeze blowing across the fiesta grounds. Mother Nature has that part covered. Customs is helping with the rest.

The safety of fiesta attendees and of the people piloting the hot air balloons has become a greater concern for law enforcement since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. As a result, the Albuquerque-El Paso Air Branch now plays a big role in the overall law enforcement effort by providing airspace security on both weekends of the nine-day event.

Photo Credit: Roger Maier

Customs provides airspace security at balloon fiesta.

Customs officers piloting a Cessna Citation and a UH60 Black Hawk helicopter patrol the skies around the fiesta grounds, making sure no unauthorized aircraft enter the restricted airspace unchallenged. They're also in constant communication with a Customs detection systems specialist, who is monitoring FAA radar at the Albuquerque airport tower. Another Customs officer is positioned at a law enforcement command post at the fiesta grounds, serving as a vital link between officers in the air and on the ground.

It is a coordinated and important use of Customs assets; however, U.S. Customs Service Albuquerque-El Paso Air and Marine Interdiction Branch Chief Mark Schindler sees the mission as more than just law enforcement work.

"As New Mexico hosts the world ballooning community, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta provides a good opportunity for Customs to display our ability to execute the Homeland Security mission for our fellow citizens and guests," says Schindler. "Albuquerque-El Paso Air Branch is proud to be part of the law enforcement team dedicated to a safe International Balloon Fiesta."

This is the second year the Albuquerque Aviation Branch has provided air space security for the fiesta, and it gives the Customs officers involved a unique opportunity to showcase one-of-a-kind skills.