UP, UP AND AWAY: Downtown Disney guests will get a bird’s-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort and beyond as they soar to rarified heights in a new attraction now open at Downtown Disney West Side near Pleasure Island. Characters in Flight, operated by Aerophile, is a giant tethered gas balloon with a whimsical Disney design featuring a dozen of Disney’s animated flying characters in silhouette such as Mary Poppins, Peter Pan and Dumbo. Characters in Flight rises into the sky carrying up to 30 passengers to a height of 400 feet. Flight times and availability depend on weather conditions. Riders can catch flights 7 days a week, adults $16, and $10 for children ages 3-9. Availability is on first-come, first-serve basis. (Gene Duncan, photographer)