Frequently Asked Question's
When do you fly? During the summer months, we can fly in the early mornings, right at sunrise and in the fall and winter and early spring we can typically fly a morning and afternoon flight. All flights are weather dependent.
How long is the flight? The flight is typically an hour to an hour and a half depending on the wind speed. Passengers need to allow at least 3-4 hours for the whole experience.
How high do you go? Most flights take place between 500 and 2,000 feet.
How far do you travel? It depends on how fast the wind is blowing. If the wind is at 10 miles per hour then the balloon will travel 10 miles in the hour-long flight.
How long does it take to prepare the balloon for flight? It usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour from start of unpacking to being ready to fly.
Why does it have to fly so early in the morning? Balloons need very stable weather conditions and this occurs most predictably in the few hours after dawn. We also like to fly before the sun heats up the ground and the wind and "up lifts" begin.
How many people go into the basket? It typically depends on the size of the passengers. We can carry up to 3 passengers as long as their combined weight does not exceed 500 lbs. In some instances, usually in the summer, when the weather is hot and humid, we cannot carry a full 500 pounds. Our pilot can tell you when this might occur and can offer suggestions for alternative arrangements if needed.
Is there an age limit or any restrictions on passengers? We typically don’t limit age but we do prefer that children be of an age that they understand the conditions of hot air ballooning. If you have children under the age of 12, please contact us before making the reservation. There are usually no upper limits on age but each person should be informed that hot air ballooning is a sport and requires a certain amount of agility and physical exertion. If you have any physical or health issues, please discuss it with us prior to the flight.
What happens after the flight? Once the flight is concluded and the balloon is packed away, a short ceremony initiating first time flyers is performed after the Balloonist’s Prayer.
What should I wear? Dress should be comfortable and clothing you don’t mind getting a little dirty, as you may be included in the inflation and deflation of the balloon. T-shirts or a casual shirt and jeans or comfortable pants, tennis shoes or any rubber soled shoes suitable for walking is the recommended attire. Since the temperature in the early morning is sometimes cool, a light jacket or sweater is recommended. Skirts and dresses, open toed shoes or sandals and any high-heeled shoe should be avoided.
Where do we take off? Our launch site generally depends on the wind direction. We can pick you up at your place of stay and return you after your flight or we can meet at a predetermined meeting place.