Pre-Flight: An informative pre-flight safety briefing by your FAA Certified Commercial Pilot. All of our pilots and balloons are fully certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Inflation: You can actually participate in the exciting inflation process, or just watch the multi-colored hot air balloon unfold a world of color around you. Before you realize it, the pilot stands the balloon up and you board the hand-crafted wicker basket.
Takeoff: The lift-off and ascent are so gentle many people do not realize they have left the loving arms of mother earth. As you become one with the wind, you lose sensation of motion and perception of heights. You begin to feel the peacefulness and tranquility of ballooning.
Flight: The flight lasts about an hour, more or less and will be full of wonderful discoveries. The memory lasts for a lifetime. Never again will you think of flying in quite the same way.
Landing: Your pilot will look for a spot near a farm, school or backyard, where there will be thrilled people to help you celebrate your “arrival”. After landing the pilot and crew will pack up the balloon and return to the launch site for the post flight celebration. The tradition of celebrating the flight began in the early 1700’s upon landing, the first balloons were feared as evil spirits, and attacked by the local villagers and farmers. A later balloonist presented a letter from the King and a bottle of champagne as evidence of their Earthly origins, and so continues today, the tradition of champagne as a gesture of friendliness and good times.
Safety In Summary:
- Your safety is our primary concern.
- Pay close attention during your pre-flight safety briefing.
- Adhere to the pilot’s instructions at all times.
- Never exit the basket without the pilot directing you to do so.
- If you see something that concerns you, please advise the pilot (power lines, trees etc.).
- Relax, have fun and enjoy the experience!