It is the safest way to fly! Just like commercial airliners, hot air balloons register and follow FAA safety and maintenance standards. All hot air ballooning pilots have licenses and training according to rigorous standards. Specific safety mechanisms and equipment are required for every flight.
The altitude varies during flights and depends on the surface wind conditions. It also depends on how high you fly. Average altitudes in our area range between 1,000 and 3,000 feet above the ground. Some of the flight is at treetop level, which depends on wind conditions. The pilots are skilled at providing you a wonderful and safe experience. Flights typically last from 45 minutes to one hour. Pilots take into account wind speed, direction, and the availability of landing sites to make it a safe flight. Each flight is unique.
Ballooning is a fun activity for people of almost any age. There are some individuals that are not safe to fly. These individuals include, but are not limited to: infants, young children (less than 6 years old), those who are not tall enough to see over the side of the basket, pregnant women, those who have recently gone scuba diving, and individuals who suffer from chronic pain or have recently had a major surgery. If you have a medical condition that may cause discomfort or aggravation during a flight, or have been advised by a doctor to restrict activity, please consult your physician in advance.
Passengers stand during the hour-long flight. After the flight, passengers will walk a distance from the balloons to the chase vehicle, sometimes on uneven ground. The balloon baskets do not have doors, therefore a certain amount of flexibility and upper body strength is desirable for getting in and out of the hot air balloon basket. Ballooning is best appreciated by those who have a sense of adventure. For more information, see our Passenger Information Sheet, which you receive with your confirmation materials.
We launch just after daybreak when the winds are calm and temperatures are cool. We hope that the lovely light of the early morning sunrise, and the special sounds before the rest of the world is awake, makes it worth it to our passengers to join us on this early morning adventure.
Wear casual clothing, preferably in layers so that you can adjust to the warming temperatures as the morning progresses. Ladies are most comfortable in trousers, because of the need to climb in and out of the basket. We recommend flat-heeled, closed-toe shoes. Some people like to wear a light hat or a ball cap. Sun glasses or binoculars are optional, but cameras are a must. You definitely want to take photos of the beautiful views you experience during your hot air balloon adventure.
We require at least 72 hours notice for cancellation. No shows or cancellations within 72 hours are charged the full rate. If the flight is canceled because of weather conditions or other safety issues you are NOT charged. Please contact us if you have any questions!