Ask a Balloon Pilot FAQ’s

*Have a question about hot air ballooning? You're in the right place.. After flying thousands of passengers over Arizona, we've heard just about every question imaginable. Here are honest answers from experienced balloon pilots to help you know exactly what to expect.*

Most people are surprised by how peaceful ballooning is. Unlike amusement park rides or helicopters, there are no sudden movements or sharp turns. Since the balloon moves with the wind, you don't feel wind rushing past you. Many guests who were nervous before takeoff tell us afterward that they would happily do it again.

Because the balloon travels with the wind, you are moving at the exact same speed as the surrounding air. That's why ballooning feels so smooth compared to riding in an airplane or helicopter.

Not usually. Dress for the morning temperature. The burner overhead actually provides occasional warmth during the flight, and because you move with the wind, there is almost no wind chill.

Many guests who dislike heights discover that ballooning doesn't trigger the same feeling. Since there are no walls, windows, or sensation of speed, most people find the experience relaxing rather than frightening.

Typical balloon flights range from just above the desert floor to several thousand feet depending on wind conditions, airspace restrictions, and what provides the safest and most enjoyable flight that morning.

Not like an airplane. A balloon travels wherever the wind carries it. However, winds often blow in different directions at different altitudes, so the pilot can climb or descend to find the most favorable direction.

We don't know the exact landing location before takeoff. Our chase crew follows the balloon throughout the flight, and the pilot selects a safe landing area based on wind direction, terrain, and available open space.

Morning offers the calmest, most stable air. As the sun heats the ground, winds become stronger and more unpredictable. Flying early provides the safest and smoothest experience.

The FAA does not permit commercial balloon operators to launch before sunrise. We begin preparations before sunrise and launch shortly afterward when conditions are legal and safe.

Weather is constantly monitored before and during every flight. If conditions are not safe, the flight is canceled or postponed. Safety always comes first.

Arizona has some of the best ballooning weather in the country, but Mother Nature is always in charge. High winds, storms, or poor visibility may require cancellation.

Clear skies and light winds provide ideal ballooning conditions. Interestingly, a perfectly sunny day is not required. Wind conditions matter far more than sunshine.

Commercial balloon operators follow strict FAA regulations. Pilots receive specialized training and make conservative decisions regarding weather. Ballooning has an excellent safety record when operated professionally.

Our pilots are FAA-certified commercial balloon pilots with extensive flight experience. Safety, professionalism, and guest enjoyment are always our highest priorities.

No. Since the balloon floats with the surrounding air, passengers generally do not experience turbulence like they would in an airplane.

Usually not. Balloon flights climb and descend gradually, allowing your ears to adjust naturally.

Only slightly. Most guests quickly become comfortable with the gentle movement.

Arizona Balloon Safaris operates one of the largest passenger hot air balloons in the United States. Our oversized basket provides significantly more room than many smaller balloons, giving guests a more comfortable experience.

Plan on approximately four hours from check-in until completion of the post-flight celebration.

The chase crew follows the balloon throughout the flight, assists with landing, retrieves the balloon, and helps pack the equipment.

Absolutely. Ballooning provides spectacular photography opportunities. Smartphones, cameras, and video equipment are all welcome.

No. FAA regulations prohibit operating drones around balloons, and drones can create serious safety hazards.

Yes. Many guests capture incredible videos during takeoff, flight, and landing.

Comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Dress for the morning weather since temperatures are similar to those on the ground.

During warm months, shorts are perfectly acceptable. Closed-toe shoes are much more important than long pants.

A hat is optional but can help shield your head from the warmth of the burner during brief blasts.

For safety reasons, we recommend closed-toe athletic or walking shoes.

Small personal items are fine, but large bags are discouraged due to limited space.

Yes. They are great for spotting wildlife and distant mountain ranges.

Possibly. Guests often see jackrabbits, coyotes, quail, roadrunners, hawks, rabbits, and occasionally mule deer.

Depending on the day's winds, you may enjoy views of several mountain ranges surrounding the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Probably not. Balloon routes depend entirely on the winds and FAA airspace restrictions.

Every flight is unique because the wind determines where the balloon travels.

Yes. Even our pilots don't know exactly where each morning's adventure will lead.

Anywhere from a few miles to considerably farther depending upon wind speed.

Pilots always seek the safest available landing area, which may occasionally be near residential areas if conditions require.

The pilot selects a suitable landing area, gradually reduces altitude, and gently touches down.

Most landings are gentle. Wind conditions may occasionally create a firmer landing, and your pilot will explain the proper landing position beforehand.

Guests help celebrate with our traditional champagne toast (or non-alcoholic beverage), while the crew packs up the balloon.