The "Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta" organization is under scrutiny by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is monitoring issues and studying regulations that could affect one of the world's best-known hot air balloon shows. Enthusiasts and pilots say future airspace regulations could severely limit the show and threaten the local balloon industry. 

This is the regulators' response: "FAA has determined that major events such as the 'Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta' will not be affected due to the presence of advanced planning, waivers, warnings to air operations, and other risk mitigations associated with this large air show. The authority is leading an inter-organizational working group to explore possible solutions to other issues related to hot air balloon flights in the Albuquerque area". 

The new regulations would require, among other things, the use of Gps technology while within Class C airspace, which is nearly all of the city of Albuquerque and parts of Rio Rancho. Pilots complain that to date there is no way to install that device aboard the balloons. Organizers have confirmed that they will seek a waiver for the upcoming 50th anniversary of the event. 

On the same subject see also the article published by AVIONEWS.