Your ballooning queries answered

What is hot air ballooning?

Hot air ballooning is a type of adventure sport which helps you see the whole world below and gives you a feeling of flying like a bird. It uses the concept of a balloon which when heated rises above the ground and reaches high altitudes and provides a splendid view of the tall buildings, mountains and landscapes around. It is less crowded and safer than a helicopter and also promises a peaceful journey.

How did ballooning start?

History of ballooning dates back to as early as the 18th century, when the French brothers Josef and Etienne Montgolfier made globe-shaped balloons that could reach upto 2000 meters above ground level within ten minutes. September 17, 1783 saw its public launch with a sheep, a duck, and a rooster on board, at the royal palace of Versailles in the presence of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. The flight was successful and the animals were also safe when it landed.

On November 21, 1783, Pilatre de Rozier and the Marquis d’Arlandes became the first humans to fly around Paris travelling 9 km at a height of 100m for half an hour. Since then, many tests were conducted in United States and Europe. During the wars of the 19th and the 20th century, balloons became one of the preferred ways for performing surveillance. Soon, stronger materials were used so that they could fly higher and handle more weight.

How do hot air balloons manage to fly?

The principle here is very simple. Hot air tends to be lighter than cold air. Hot air rises and cold air sinks down. So when a balloon is filled with hot air before taking off, it goes up and floats in the air till the air cools down. When the balloonist wants to land, he allows the air to cool down and the balloon starts sinking and finally lands gently to the ground.

What is the structure of a hot air balloon?

It is made up of 3 parts: envelope, basket and the burner. The envelope is the colorful inflated bag which holds air inside. The basket, usually made up of wicker, is the container which holds people in it. It is light weight and flexible. The burner is placed just above the head of the passenger and is used to produce flame which heats up the envelope.

How does it rise and how does it know where to land?

Initially, the pilot on checking the weather condition and air movement will know which way the balloon will head. Once airborne, balloons just float with the wind. Even though the pilot cannot predict beforehand as to where exactly the balloon will land, he has full control on the balloon. Since the air is in different layers, the pilot can control the up-down movement of the balloon to make sure that the balloon lands safely. The balloon is followed by a chase crew which is constantly in touch with the pilot regarding safety, landing, dangers, etc. the crew’s job is to be at the landing site when the balloon comes down and ensure its safe landing.

How much is the cost and how long will I be flying?

$225 to $275 per person is charged in the US, though prices vary widely from company to company. It lasts for about 1 or 2 hours, depending on wind direction, weather, company and landing space availability or distance.

Are there any special arrangements for a handicapped person or any weight or age requirement?

Though very rare, you might chance upon a provider who has arrangements like a wheelchair or a special seat. But charges would be quite high. There are balloons with a capacity of 14-16 people, and though there is no legal age limit or requirement, small children are not allowed since they can get frightened because of the height or the sight of fire burning above their heads.

Is it safe?

Due to modern approaches and developments, it is quite safe and doesn’t pose any threat that is possible with a helicopter. Since it is light weight and you are assisted by a pilot, you are in safe hands and need to worry. Just go out and enjoy the breath-taking view of the world below.