Balloonist in strife after entering restricted airspace

Triumphant British adventurer David Hempleman-Adams could be brought down to Earth with a fine for entering restricted airspace after he claimed a new world altitude record in a hot-air balloon.

The 47-year-old balloonist, mountaineer and polar explorer landed safely in a Colorado field yesterday after reaching approximately 43,000 ft - more than 13km - in a balloon with an open wicker basket.

However, America's Federal Aviation Administration was investigating whether the balloonist, who has a British licence, was issued with a US licence for the flight, and whether he was in restricted airspace. The agency could seek civil penalties.