Introduction to Hot Air Ballooning

Well, buckle up because we’re about to take you on a whimsical journey through the clouds!

The Thrill of Hot Air Ballooning

Picture this: The sun is just peeking over the horizon, the air is crisp, and you’re floating upwards in a colorful balloon. It’s tranquility and adventure, all wrapped in one. Pure bliss, isn’t it?

The Origins of Hot Air Ballooning

But wait, where did this all start? Back in the 1700s, the Montgolfier brothers from France were the pioneers. They used fire to heat the air inside the balloon, and voilà, the first hot air balloon was born!

What to Expect When Hot Air Ballooning

When it comes to hot air ballooning, there’s a whole world up there waiting to be explored. But before you take off, let me fill you in on what to expect during your ballooning escapade.

The Takeoff Experience

It starts off gentle. The balloon fills up, and before you know it, you’re slowly lifting off the ground. It’s like that feeling when your heart skips a beat, but way cooler!

In-flight Scenery

Up there, it’s a feast for the eyes. Rolling landscapes, majestic mountains, and maybe a rainbow if you’re lucky! It’s like nature’s painting unfolding beneath you.

The Landing Adventure

Ah, the descent! A gentle touchdown with a side of adrenaline. Don’t forget the traditional champagne toast at the end!

Best Destinations for Hot Air Ballooning

Alright, adventure junkies, get ready to take your hot air ballooning game to new heights! We’ve scouted out some of the most epic destinations around the world where you can experience the thrill of floating in a colorful balloon. So buckle up (or should we say buckle in?), because here are the best places to fly in a hot air balloon:

Cappadocia, Turkey

Think fairy chimneys and ancient caves. Cappadocia is like flying in a fantasy world. Don’t be shocked if you half expect to see dragons!

Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

Home to the world’s largest balloon festival, Albuquerque is THE place for balloon enthusiasts. Plus, the Rio Grande and Sandia Mountains are a sight to behold.

Serengeti, Tanzania

Imagine floating over the African plains, watching the great migration below. The Serengeti is the real Lion King experience.

Yarra Valley, Australia

Vineyards and lush landscapes? Yarra Valley is where you wanna be for a posh ballooning adventure.

Bagan, Myanmar

Hundreds of ancient temples as far as the eye can see. Bagan is literally history from the sky.

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Tips Before You Take to the Skies

Ready to embark on your hot air ballooning escapade? Here are some handy tips to make sure you have a blast up there:

Dressing for the Occasion

Comfort is key! Layer up, as it can be chilly up there. And don’t forget sturdy shoes.

Picking the Right Time

Early morning or late afternoon are the sweet spots for the best experience.

Safety Tips

Listen to the pilot, and don’t be shy to ask questions. Safety first, folks!

Balloon Festivals Not to Miss

There’s Albuquerque, but did you know about the Saga Balloon Fiesta in Japan or the Bristol Balloon Fiesta in the UK? Add them to your bucket list!

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Hot air ballooning is not just an activity, it’s an experience that etches memories in your heart. Whether you’re gliding over ancient landscapes or watching wildlife, it’s pure magic. Ready to take the leap?

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History of the origin of the balloon
The working prototype of the first hot air balloon was built by the Montgolfier brothers in 1782. The volume of the dome of the apparatus was 1 cubic meter and it did not rise to a height of more than 30 meters above the surface. The next model of the inventors was significantly larger – with a dome volume of 600 cubic meters its diameter was 11 meters. This big balloon was equipped with a roaster and silk wrapped in paper was used to make the dome. The apparatus was launched on June 5, 1783. The device rose to an altitude of about 2,000 meters.

Montgolfier’s balloon became a catalyst for new ideas. Inventor Jacques Alexandre Charles developed a hydrogen-powered apparatus. Together with Robert’s mechanics, the designer made a unit with a dome made of silk impregnated with rubber. The diameter of the ball was 3.6 meters. Hydrogen was supplied inside the product by means of a hose with a valve. A special installation made it possible to produce the necessary gas from metal chips, water and sulfuric acid. The hydrogen balloon took off in the sky on the Champ de Mars on August 27, 1783. At an altitude of 1 km, hydrogen began to expand and ruptured the shell, and the flying machine fell to the ground on the outskirts of Paris.

The first experiments in lifting balloons into the sky marked the beginning of the rapid development of a new field called ballooning.

Technology of ballooning
Most modern balloons, like the Montgolfier apparatus, are filled with heated air. Ballooning technology has not changed much either:

-Thermal balloon domes are made of a durable polyester or polyamide-based nylon fabric. On the inside, the shell is coated with polyurethane or silicone. The holes of inlet and outlet of warm air as well as sections of the dome are covered with protective and loading tapes. The shells of modern balloons are classified according to their volume and carrying capacity.
-Balloon burners ensure that the shell is inflated with hot air. These are fairly complex and expensive devices that function on liquid propane. Hot air balloon burners are provided with protective elements and are made of rugged stainless steel. The power of this equipment reaches 4.5-6 mW.
-Baskets in balloons are traditionally made of vine, the lower part is made of moisture-resistant plywood. The structural frame is strengthened with 5-6 mm steel cables. The basket is also fastened to the dome with ropes. The frame is supplemented with reinforcing elements in leather covers. In the corners of the basket placed gas cylinders, cases, fire extinguishers and other accessories.

How are balloons used nowadays?
Despite the emergence of more efficient and faster modern aircraft balloons are widely used in different areas of human activity. Ballooning in our day is still in demand and is becoming more and more mass industry. Balloons are used in the following areas:

-Entertainment and recreation. Hot air balloon rides do not lose popularity. Anyone can go on an unforgettable trip for a relatively affordable price. Temporary barrier to the adventure may be only the weather conditions. Each year in the world there are several hundred festivals of ballooning, where you can not only fly in a balloon, but also to watch the enchanting spectacle of flying machines.
-Tourism. Today hot air balloon flights are also carried out for sightseeing purposes. Flying passengers have a unique opportunity to observe famous architectural constructions or natural sceneries from the height of the bird’s flight.
-Aeronautics. Developed branch of aviation sport, where balloons are used in competitions. Among a large variety of sports competitions, the most prestigious are the Gordon Bennett Cup, the world championships in hot air balloons and gas balloons. The first World Air Games took place in 1997.
-Military use. In the army, balloons are mainly used to survey and photograph the location of the enemy, correcting artillery fire. Modern aircraft can be equipped with communications and reconnaissance equipment, such as cameras.
-Meteorology. Small weather balloons made of varnished paper and filled with gas are used to observe the weather. The devices make it possible to determine wind direction, pressure, humidity and speed of air masses at different altitudes.
Photo and video shooting. Balloons allow for geodetic and cartographic photography from height. However, with the advent of remotely piloted aerocopters, they are gradually losing ground in this field.

Conclusion
The invention of the balloon by the Montgolfier brothers in 1782 initiated the active development of a new field called aeronautics. Most modern balloons are filled with heated air, less common are hydrogen-powered devices. Despite the emergence of efficient and fast modern aircraft balloons are widely used in the fields of entertainment, tourism, sports, military and meteorology. The popularity of balloons is due to their environmental friendliness, beautiful appearance, the opportunity to take to the skies and experience inexpressible emotions.

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The most interesting facts about balloons
Let’s list a few informative factors about balloons. This information will be of interest to anyone who is planning a balloon trip.

You need a license to drive the balloon
Not everyone can operate a hot air balloon, you must first obtain a special license. Request permission to fly from the competent supervisory authorities that control the airspace. To obtain a license, a pilot is required to successfully pass an examination. Training takes place mostly in the summer, such a service is not cheap. Classes may be individual or group.

You can fly around the world in a balloon
Residents of Switzerland and Great Britain were the first in the world to fly around the world in a hot-air balloon. Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones began their unusual journey on March 1, 1999. They set off in an easterly direction to circumnavigate the planet, it did not take them long. They landed on March 21 in Egypt.

Many have attempted to circumnavigate the globe in a hot-air balloon, but not all of them were successful. Such a trip is better to plan for the period from mid-December to the end of winter, when the upper atmospheric layers are blowing with easterly winds.

What is the maximum altitude at which a balloon can fly?
Balloons can travel at considerable altitudes. The world altitude record was set by Vijaypat Singhania on 5.11.2005. He was able to ascend the balloon to 68,986 feet. The traveler started from central Namibia and landed after 240 km in Panchala. The previous record was 64,997 feet and belonged to Perot Listerand, who set it on 6.06.88.

Differences between a balloon and an airship
A balloon and an airship are flying devices invented by humans to conquer the sky. The difference between them is quite significant. A balloon moves along the earth’s surface under the influence of the wind. An airship has an engine that activates the propellers – like airplanes. It also has rudders that allow it to move in different directions.

What is the largest balloon in the world?
Balloons differ not only in color, but also in size. The largest was inflated at an airfield located in Houston – this happened in 1998. The record was set by Vickel Donahue. The size of the balloon was 42.7 meters, and its height was 13.7 meters.

In today’s world balloons are used only for entertainment
In the modern world balloons are used mainly for entertainment purposes. They decorate grounds and halls, on the occasion of all kinds of celebrations. The bright look of balloons elevates the mood, contributes to a festive atmosphere. The balloons filled with helium are especially popular. They are also quite often used for advertising purposes.

Balloons are used in astronautics
An Arizona company conducts test flights in balloons. Scientists believe that this mode of transport is capable of delivering a person to the border of space. The trip is planned to be carried out in a basket with view windows, from where there is a beautiful view of the Earth.

The rocket is planned to be attached to a balloon filled with a gas lighter than air. This structure rises above the dense atmospheric layers, reducing aerodynamic losses. Next, the separation of the rocket takes place. The advantage of this technology is that there is no need to “punch” through dense atmospheric layers.

How were balloons used in the past?
Tens of years ago, balloons were used mainly in aeronautics. Kites, which can be considered their counterpart, were very popular.

Another unusual way to use large inflatable balloons was to hang powder bombs from them.

Balloons were used in warfare
Balloons in military operations began to be used in the nineteenth century. It is not known for certain when the first balloon attack was made. Balloons were used to create tether barriers in the path of enemy aircraft. During World War II, balloons were also used; they were used to erect entire scaffolds over Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other cities. They prevented the free flight of bombers. But initially they were still used for reconnaissance purposes.

When was the first balloon flight?
The first time the balloon was used as a means of transportation was on 21.11.1783. It was the first ever human flight in this form of “transport”. The pioneers of aeronautics are the Montgolfier brothers, they dreamed of creating a flying machine that would take people into the air. The first flight without a man was 5.06.1783, that balloon was filled with hot smoke.

The updated version of the balloon was larger, its height was 22.7 meters and diameter was 15 meters. In the lower part there was a circular gallery, which could accommodate 2 passengers. But the French king did not allow the inventors to personally participate in the flight. The chemist Jean François Pilatres de Rosier and his friend Marquis François Arlandes took part in the first hot air balloon tour.

Flying in a hot air balloon is a vivid adventure, extremely popular in the tourism industry. The main thing is to remember the rules of safety, not to neglect the preparation.

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However, purchasing a balloon or inflatable can be a significant investment. But, we consulted our friend from Money Zap, Frank Glemstone, and he decided to show us the best way to fund your balloon business. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at how you can borrow money or find potential investors to join your cause. 

Traditional Financing Options

When most people think of financing, they think of traditional options like bank loans or credit lines. These options can be a good choice if you have a solid credit history and collateral to secure the loan. Here are some of the traditional financing options you can consider:

1. Bank loans: If you have a good credit score and a business plan that demonstrates the potential for profitability, you may be able to secure a loan from a bank or credit union. These loans typically have fixed interest rates and repayment terms that can range from a few months to several years.
2. Credit lines: Another option is to apply for a business line of credit. This gives you access to a revolving credit account that you can use to make purchases or pay bills as needed. You only pay interest on the amount you borrow, and you can repay the balance at any time.

While traditional financing options can be a reliable way to fund your balloon or inflatable purchase, they may not be the best choice for everyone. 

Alternative Financing Options

If traditional financing isn’t an option or doesn’t suit your needs, there are several alternative financing options to consider. Here are a few examples:

• Equipment leasing: With equipment leasing, you can essentially rent the balloon or inflatable and make regular payments over a set term. At the end of the lease term, you can either return the equipment or buy it outright. This can be a good option if you don’t have the cash or collateral for a traditional loan, but still want to use the equipment.
• Manufacturer or supplier financing: Some manufacturers or suppliers of balloons and inflatables offer financing options for their products. These financing options may have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment terms than traditional loans. This can be a convenient option if you already know what type of balloon or inflatable you want to purchase.
• Personal loans: If you have good credit and can’t secure a business loan, you may be able to get a personal loan to finance your balloon or inflatable purchase. This option can be more flexible and easier to qualify for than traditional business loans but may have higher interest rates.
• Credit cards: Depending on the cost of the balloon or inflatable, you may be able to use a business or personal credit card to make the purchase. This can be a convenient option if you need to make the purchase quickly and can pay off the balance in a timely manner.

Crowdfunding

Another option for financing your balloon or inflatable purchase is crowdfunding. Crowdfunding allows you to raise money from a large number of people who are interested in supporting your business or project. There are many online crowdfunding platforms available, such as Kickstarter or Indiegogo, that can help you reach a wider audience.

To launch a successful crowdfunding campaign, you’ll need to create a compelling pitch that explains why your balloon or inflatable is unique and why people should support your campaign. You’ll also need to offer incentives for people who contribute, such as exclusive merchandise or experiences.

Crowdfunding can be a great way to raise the funds you need without taking on debt or giving up equity in your business. However, it does require a significant amount of effort and marketing to succeed. It’s important to carefully plan and execute your campaign to maximize your chances of success.

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Starting a hot air balloon ride business may sound like a dream come true if you’re an entrepreneur with a thirst for adventure. What could be more thrilling than taking people on unforgettable flights over breathtaking landscapes, high above the world below? However, as with any business venture, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before taking the plunge. We will look at some of the key benefits and drawbacks of starting a hot air balloon ride business, so you can decide whether this is the right path for you.

Pros of Starting a Hot Air Balloon Ride Business

1. Unique and Memorable Experience

One of the most compelling reasons to start a hot air balloon ride business is that you’ll be offering customers an experience they’re unlikely to forget. Unlike other types of tours or activities, hot air balloon rides offer a slow, peaceful journey that allows passengers to truly appreciate the beauty of their surroundings and allows people to see the world from a completely new perspective. They’ll feel the wind in their hair, the sun on their face, and the rush of excitement as they float effortlessly through the sky. For many people, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and you’ll have the satisfaction of providing them with something truly special. Many people are willing to pay a premium for this kind of experience, making it an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs.

2. Low Environmental Impact

Another benefit of a hot air balloon ride business is that it has a relatively low environmental impact. Unlike airplanes or helicopters, hot air balloons don’t emit pollutants or noise pollution, and they don’t require runways or other infrastructure. This means you can operate in a wide range of locations, from rural fields to urban parks, without causing harm to the environment or disturbing nearby communities.

3. High-Profit Margins

The cost of operating a hot air balloon ride business can be relatively high due to the need for specialized equipment and trained pilots. However, the profit margins can also be high. Depending on the location and demand, hot air balloon rides can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars per ride, providing a potentially lucrative revenue stream.

4. Seasonal Business

Depending on the location, hot air balloon ride businesses may operate only during certain months of the year when weather conditions are optimal. While this can be seen as a downside, it also means that entrepreneurs have the potential to earn a year’s worth of revenue in just a few months, allowing for flexibility in scheduling and potential for other business ventures during the off-season.

Cons of Starting a Hot Air Balloon Ride Business

1. High Start-up Costs

Starting a hot air balloon ride business can be expensive. The cost of purchasing a hot air balloon, basket, and other equipment can run into tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, specialized training and licensing are required for pilots, which can add to the initial investment.

2. Weather Dependent

Hot air balloon rides are highly dependent on weather conditions. Wind, rain, and storms can all impact the safety and feasibility of a ride. This means that cancellations and rescheduling may be necessary, which can result in lost revenue and customer dissatisfaction.

3. Liability Concerns

Hot air balloon rides carry inherent risks, and accidents can happen. As a result, entrepreneurs must have adequate liability insurance in place to protect themselves and their customers in case of injury or damage to property.

4. Limited Capacity

Hot air balloons have a limited capacity, usually around 4-10 passengers per ride. This means that the business may not be able to accommodate large groups or events, which can limit revenue potential.

5. Regulatory Requirements

Hot air balloon ride businesses are subject to various regulations and safety requirements, which can vary depending on the location. Compliance with these regulations can add to the costs and complexity of running the business.

Starting a hot air balloon ride business can be a unique and potentially lucrative venture for entrepreneurs with a passion for aviation and a love of adventure. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges and risks that must be carefully considered before taking flight.

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Top 10 places for a hot-air balloon ride

Let’s explore some beautiful places where you will have an unforgettable experience.

1. Cappadocia, Turkey. Yes, yes, it has been mentioned hundreds of times before, but Cappadocia is one of the most popular and coolest destinations for the hot-air balloon ride in the world. It has been all around Pinterest and Instagram, and it is quite possible you have seen its pictures. The location’s unique landscape, weird rock formations and fairy chimneys, are an unforgettable experiences. When the sun rises or sets, the colors of the landscape change, creating an even more breathtaking experience.
2. Albuquerque, New Mexico. The next remarkable place is Albuquerque. You can take in the stunning views of the Rio Grande Valley and the Sandia Mountains as you drift peacefully through the sky. Every October there is a festival, and you can see hundreds of colorful balloons in the sky, and this year it will be the 51st time.
3. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. One of the most popular places in Africa for this kind of adventure is the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Here you have an opportunity to see the animals up close.
4. Bagan, Myanmar. Bagan is an ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar. As if a lost city of ghosts, the ancient temples of Bagan rise out of the mist. The views from up above are absolutely breathtaking, and you will have plenty of time to enjoy them as you float peacefully through the air.
5. Masai Mara, Kenya. While Serengeti National Park is the most popular but if you want to really experience hot-air ballooning in Africa, there is no better place than the Masai Mara — home to an abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and giraffes.
6. Reims, France. Reims is located in the heart of Champagne country and is well-known for its picturesque landscapes. You will drift over vineyards and rolling hills during your ride, soaking up the French countryside.
7. Teotihuacan, Mexico. Hot-air ballooning over the Teotihuacan archaeological complex is special. When your flight reaches up to 2,500 feet (0.76 km) high, you will be mesmerized by the view of ancient wonder.
8. Napa Valley, United States. There is nothing like floating above the stunning scenery of Napa Valley in a hot air balloon. You will be amazed by the views, and it’s an unforgettable way to see this incredible region. You can enjoy this magical experience if you visit during the annual wine harvest or in Winter to see the frost-covered vines because the rides are available all year long!
9. Luxor, Egypt. To take a hot-air balloon flight in Luxor is great because it is one of the best places in the world. This ancient city comes alive as you float high above it. While drifting across the skies below, you will find the magnificent Luxor Temple, tombs and Colossi of Memnon – two enormous statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III originally designed to guard his mortuary temple, located on the western bank of the Nile.
10. Wadi Rum, Jordan. Wadi Rum was an important trading route for the Nabataeans, located 65 miles (ca. 105 km) from Petra in the heart of the Jordanian desert. A ride in Wadi Rum offers panoramic views of the area’s natural wonders and incredible sandstone landscapes.

The mentioned above places are one of the best, but there are still a lot of them out there and if you decide to take a hot-air balloon ride, you should definitely check all the places you can.

And now to the surprise part. Another great opportunity how to get a hot-air balloon experience is to visit a festival. This is an exciting possibility where you can enjoy yourself both as a participant and a spectator. And you can win a ticket to such a venue by playing online slots in a casino.

5 top hot air balloon festivals in the world

1. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico: Oct. 1-9. The festival was introduced in 1972 and now is the largest balloon festival in the world.
2. New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning in Readington, New Jersey: July 29-31. The New Jersey festival is the largest summer hot-air balloon festival in North America.
3. Taiwan International Balloon Festival in Taitung, Taiwan: July 2-Aug. 15. In its first 10 years, the Taiwan International Balloon Festival has brought global attention to the country, with more than 7.5 million visitors.
4. Saga International Balloon Fiesta in Saga, Japan: Nov. 2-6. The Saga International Balloon Festival is the biggest hot-air ballooning event in Asia. It attracts 800,000 spectators and many international balloonists.
5. European Balloon Festival in Igualada, Spain: July 7-10. The largest balloon festival in Spain includes balloon competitions, live music, kids’ activities, a night glow event and fireworks.

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What is a balloon?

A balloon is the simplest kind of flying machine. It has no engine and is completely devoid of control elements. Its main purpose is to make horizontal flights in the air. Nevertheless, modern devices allow making long horizontal flights.

So, the main elements of any balloon are:

• The dome. During the flight, it is filled with gas and allows you to lift the structure up.
• Burner. The part that creates the streams of hot air needed to fill the dome during the flight.
• Basket. Designed to carry passengers, luggage and the pilot himself.

Travelling by balloon is a fascinating activity, able to cause genuine excitement in both children and adults.

A short history of the names

Let’s understand, what is the name of the balloon for flying and when it appeared?

According to unofficial data, the first ballooning was performed in 1306 in China on the day of the ascension to the throne of Emperor Fo Kien.

Nevertheless, the birthplace of the modern balloon is considered to be France. The creation of the first flying machine is credited to the Montgolfier brothers. They designed, patented and launched the first balloon in 1783.

Interesting! Montgolfier is the official name of the balloons. It is composed of the names of the brothers-inventors who created and patented the design.

The first balloon weighed about 155 kilograms. It was able to rise to 300 meters in the air and stayed in flight for only 10 minutes. During this time, the design covered a distance of 500 meters.

Safety precautions during the flight

The following meteorological conditions must be met for a safe flight in a hot air balloon:

• Air temperature between -15 and +25 degrees Celsius.
• Low cloudiness.
• Wind speed of 3 to 4 meters per second.
• Absence of heavy precipitation.
• Not allowed to fly under any circumstances:
• Persons under the influence of alcohol.
• People with nervous system disorders, cardiovascular diseases and other medical contraindications.
• Pregnant women.
• People with disabilities of groups 1 and 2.
• Children under 16 years old without an adult.

Smoking is prohibited on board the balloon, as well as bringing piercing and cutting objects.

Before the first hot air balloon flight it is necessary to determine how many meters the instructor to lift the flying machine in the air. This parameter is influenced by passengers’ readiness for new impressions and sensations, but most importantly – the absence of a panic fear of heights. If you follow certain rules you can safely fly even 1 km above the ground. Watching the surroundings from a bird’s eye view is very interesting, and soaring through the air is an inexpressible adventure! If you are a beginner and wonder if this activity is safe we can answer absolutely!

Landing

It is very important to listen to the instructor’s commands during the landing. To be safe passengers should observe the following rules:

• It is necessary to secure all personal belongings: bags, cameras, etc.
• It is forbidden to move around in the basket during landing.
• Feet should be bent at the knees and hands should be grasped on the special railing.

Important: During landing it is strictly forbidden to hold hands on the edges of the basket. It is also forbidden to leave the basket without the instructor’s permission.

If you follow the above rules, you will get maximum pleasure from flying on a balloon.

How to dress for flying?

There are no strict requirements to the uniform for flying. First of all, you must dress for the weather. You should not freeze during the air ride.

Prefer sportswear. Be sure to take with you a hat. It can be a hat, cap or kerchief. The shoes should be comfortable. Ideal sneakers or hiking boots.

Important: on board of a balloon in no case you can not go in high heels.

Are children allowed to ride?

Children from 7 years old can fly in a hot air balloon. However, their height must be above 130 centimeters. Children and teenagers from 7 to 16 years old are not allowed on board unaccompanied.

Maximum lifting height

So, how high can a hot air balloon go?

If your goal is an introductory flight, the altitude of the balloon will be about 500 meters. From this height you can admire the surrounding scenery, take beautiful pictures and videos. The duration of such a flight does not exceed 20 minutes.

If the weather conditions allow and the client has a desire to go higher, the instructor can lift the balloon to a height of 1 kilometer. At the moment this height is considered as maximum for familiarization flight.

Professional athletes can fly dozens of kilometers in the air. In 2014, pilot Alan Eustace was able to fly a hot air balloon to an altitude of more than 40 kilometers.

Is it scary to fly in a hot air balloon? If you are afraid of heights, or it is your first flight, the feeling of fear is natural. If flying at 500-1000 meters seems extreme to you, consider a tethered hot air balloon. It rises up to 50 meters in the air.

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Romantic dating is important not only for young people just trying to build their family life, but also for people who are married. Problems at work, family troubles often lead to the fact that love feelings dull and family life becomes monotonous and boring. And in these situations, it is a romantic date can help maintain or revive old feelings, allow the spouses to feel young and in love again. In addition, it is a great example of building strong family relationships for children and even grandchildren.

The success of a romantic date depends largely on the desires of the people themselves, but the surrounding atmosphere is also of great importance. If you look on the internet, you will see an extensive list of romantic date ideas. One of the most successful ideas is a hot air balloon flight. The flight itself on a mongolfier (that’s the correct name for a hot air balloon), is an amazing adventure that will give you a lot of unforgettable sensations. Very often such flights are organized at dawn or dusk, which opens up amazing views from the bird’s eye view. And if the monongolfier is heart-shaped, it’s even more

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Since the balloon has no motor or wings, the balloon is controlled by two main devices during flight: the burners and the valve. When the air is heated, the balloon rises up, and when the valve is opened, the balloon begins to descend. Therefore, the height of the balloon is controlled by changing the temperature inside the dome.
Many people have a question: if the pilot can only regulate the height of the flight, then how does the balloon reach the desired location?

The answer lies here: the atmospheric conditions are used to fly the balloon. The direction and strength of the wind varies at different altitudes, so pilots can direct the balloon flight in one direction or the other when changing the vertical position of the balloon. Wind strength tends to be strong in the higher layers of the atmosphere, so pilots can partially control the speed of flight as well.

Even the most experienced pilots cannot fully control the direction of the balloon’s flight, though. Usually, wind conditions give the pilot little choice. On rare occasions, the balloon can return to the launch site. Therefore, piloting a balloon is usually an improvisation on existing weather conditions.
For this reason, the balloon is always accompanied by a ground crew who later helps the balloon descend and collect equipment and passengers.

Landing
Even during the flight, the pilot preplans at which point he will descend. The team on the ground is informed about this by telephone or radio communication.

As a rule, no special requirements apply to the landing site. It is important that it be large enough to safely land the balloon, and that the descending balloon does not cause damage to the owners of the ground. If the wind is not strong, the balloon can come down in a normal stadium. If the wind is stronger, the pilot looks for a larger area.
Experienced pilots know how to land the balloon so that contact with the ground is almost not felt. Landing the balloon is also helped by the team on the ground. However, in high winds the landing of the balloon may be “hard”. Before the flight, the pilot instructs the passengers how to behave during a “hard” landing. To many passengers, such landing is the most fun part of the flight.

Generally, pilots try to descend close to the road so that the accompanying car can approach. Sometimes, however, the balloon will come down in a large meadow. In that case, a ground crew and assistants work on the ground to help move the balloon to a better location.

After the pilot opens the dome valve, the air exits the dome. The balloon tilts and lays down on the ground. On the ground, the working crew lets the air out completely and packs the balloon.
The packing process lasts about 20 minutes.

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But let me begin by saying that the last thing we need is to take someone on a flight who is going to be scared all the time. It’s not interesting for us, and it’s not fun for our passengers.

In fact, very few people are afraid of heights! Most people, in fact, are afraid of standing on the edge……….

Balloons don’t cause fear, for several reasons. The first is that they always move smoothly, with the wind, not through the wind. A balloon can’t do otherwise.

The second is that the basket board is very high sometimes the process of getting into the basket is a challenge, for some people. It’s hard to get in the basket, but even harder to get out.

One of the best things in life is the ability to challenge ourselves and, by overcoming ourselves, enjoy a freer and fuller life than our fears have allowed us to do before. Ballooning is a fantastic and safe way to overcome your fear of heights. If you have a fear, feel free to let your pilot know, and he or she will help make your transition from “Chick” to “Eagle” as smooth as possible. Remember, our motto is “Fly for Pleasure.” And the greatest joy for us is to share that happiness with you.

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