American Journeyed From England to France Using Helium Balloons

Jonathan Trappe, 36, of Raleigh, North Carolina, became the first person to float across the English Channel using helium balloons.

Photo: American Journeyed From England to France Using Helium Balloons

About five hours later, he lowered himself into a French field by cutting some of the balloons away. "It was just an exceptional, quiet, peaceful experience," Trappe told Sky News television, which covered the adventure.

Jonathan Trappe said successfully touching down in a French field "fulfilled a lifelong dream," News14.com says.

Last month, Trappe claimed the record for the longest free-floating balloon flight after spending 14 hours blowing in the wind over North Carolina and traveling 109 miles.

On another flight, his website says he ascended to 17,930 feet, just below controlled airspace, The Associated Press reports.