The Hot Air Balloon

"Why, 'tis a floating basket with folk in it." "Whatever will they dream up next?"

- Donald and Douglas, "James and the Red Balloon", sixth season

The Hot-air Balloon came to Sodor primarily to carry holidaymakers. James and Thomas were jealous because they thought it would steal their passengers, but soon came to like it after James accidentally re-inflated it with his steam. It still carries passengers around, providing a rather different view of Sodor.

Television series

 * Season 6 - James and the Red Balloon
 * Season 7 - Emily's New Coaches, Edward's Brass Band, The Runaway Elephant, The Grand Opening, Best Dressed Engine, and Three Cheers for Thomas
 * Season 8 - Emily's New Route (deleted scene)
 * Season 12 - Duncan and the Hot Air Balloon

The Red Balloon may have appeared in a deleted scene from Train Stops Play. However, it is unconfirmed whether it is a true deleted scene or if the balloon was added digitally.