Frequently Asked Questions   FAQ’s

How long is the flight? |  What time is the flight? | What should I wear? | How far will we fly? | What if I’m afraid of heights? | What about motion sickness? | Are balloon pilots regulated? | Why is the basket made of wicker? | What type of fuel is used? | How high will we fly? | Are there any health restrictions? | How do we get back? | How tall are the balloons?

How long is the flight?

Please plan to allow at least three hours for the entire event from start to finish.  (actual time in the air is determined by your pilot based upon wind/weather conditions and the availability of landing sites but is usually between 45 to 60 minutes).

What time is the flight?

Flights operate early in the morning at sunrise.  When you make your reservation, you will be given an exact meeting time and place.

What should I wear?

Please dress in casual comfortable clothing.  A hat and sunglasses are nice to have.  In cooler weather, a jacket.  No open toe shoes, please.

How far will we fly?

Every flight is different and we are at the whim of  Mother Nature.  A typical flight is approximately five to seven miles in distance.

What if I’m afraid of heights?

There is no sensation of height in a balloon due to the lack of perspective.  When you stand atop a tall building, you feel the height because you have something to judge the height against.  We are more like an airplane.  When you look out the window, it just scenery passing by!

What about motion sickness?

Never!  The balloon travels with the wind, so there is no turbulence.

Are balloon pilots regulated?

Balloon pilots are required to hold a commercial pilot’s license from the FAA to conduct passenger rides for hire.  The balloons are registered like any other aircraft and are subject to an FAA inspection every 100 hours of operation.

Why is the basket made of wicker?

Many other materials have been experimented with over the years.  However, wicker has proven to still be the best.  It is strong, lightweight and flexible.

What type of fuel is used?

The balloons burners are fueled by liquid propane gas.  (LPG)  It is exactly the same fuel used in BBQ grills.

How high will we fly?

Every flight is different depending upon wind/weather conditions.  A typical flight is anywhere between tree-top and 5000 feet above ground.

Are there any health restrictions?

All participants should be in good general health.  Recent surgeries, casts, poor general health, or pregnant women are not allowed.

How do we get back?

Your balloon is followed by a chase van and crew who are in contact by radio with the balloon.  They will rendezvous with us at landing.

How tall are the balloons?

Balloons vary in size from 60 feet to over 100 feet tall.

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