Hot Air Balloon Flight FAQs
Where will we land?
Ballons fly with the wind, so we only know the approximate direction, not the exact landing point.
When is the best time to fly?
We operate our season between March and October. Weekend summer evenings are the most popular, but Spring and Autumn can produce some of the best flying conditions, with changing colours and flights of greater distances.
What time of day do we fly?
Balloon flights are made either early morning or evening when the winds are at their calmest. The time varies throughout the season as with the daylight hours. Typically from May - August we start at 6:30 in the morning and 6 in the evening. During the winter we can usually fly any time of the day.
What should I wear?
Ladies, please do not wear high heels. Stout waterproof shoes or wellingtons are advisable as the field can often be very damp early morning and evening. A hat for those who may be 'thin on top' as the burner creates quite a lot of radiant heat. It is just as warm in the sky as on the ground - the same clothes as one would wear to go out on the day for a walk, will be quite adequate.
What will happen to your friends who want to watch the launch?
They are most welcome to watch the inflation and then follow the Landrover and trailer to the point of landing. If you have many firends, we would suggest they stay behind for a picnic or visit the nearest pub! as congestion is easily caused on the road with a long queue of vehicles following the balloon. Please note, we do not have space for friends in the retrieve vehicles and champagne is only provided for the passengers.
Am I insured?
The balloon and passengers are insured to the maximum of two and a half million pounds for any one claim.
Can I give a voucher as a gift?
Our vouchers are valid for one year, and everyone is issued with a voucher, even for a surprise flight on a special date. Vouchers can also be presented in an 18" square candy striped box with a helium balloon which floats out depicting birthdays, anniversaries, valentines, retirement and of course Christmas greeting.
How do I book?
Simply book over the telephone with a credit or debit card on 01428 707178 or Enquire online!
The voucher will be sent to you by return of post, unless you have ordered the "balloon in a box", this is sent out five days prior to the celebration so as the helium does not go down in the balloon. Please so not forget to state the actual date of the celebration on the booking form.
Do you offer VIP flights?
We do operate small two person and six passenger balloons, plus pilot for that very special occaision such as a proposal, wedding flyout with Bride and Groom or for a private corporate flight. Champagne, a light snack and free gifts are included. Prices may vary according to your location.
Where can we fly from?
Hot Air Balloon Flights have a great number of launch sites. For information about our launch sites, visit our launch sites page.
How safe is Ballooning?
The answer is very safe. Hot air Ballooning has the best safety record of any form of flying. We only fly when conditions are safe, our pilots are highly qualified and all are commercially licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority.
How long does it take?
The flight lasts for about an hour or so but please allow three to four hours in total. Ballooning takes place in light wind conditions and good visibility with no rain. Flights take place early in the morning (06:00 hrs) and early evening (18:00 hrs) when winds are lights and the weather stable. Launch times vary with the time of sunset and sunrise.
Does my weight matter?
All balloons are weight loaded and it is very important for accurate weights, especially in the summer months when the temperature is in excess of 18 degrees. If you are 17 stone or over you must fly in the morning when it's cooler, or pay 50% surcharge.
How high do we fly?
Mostly not above 2500ft. Normally our cruising height is around 1000ft.
How many people go in the basket?
We operate balloons which hold 10, 12 and 16 passengers. We also operate VIP flights which offers balloons for 2 and 6 passengers at a premium rate.
What should I wear?
The answer is what you would wear to go for a walk in the country. It is no colder in the balloon basket than it is on the ground. Note : DO NOT wear valuable clothing as deposits do at times come from the burner.
Can I bring a camera?
The answer is yes but we can not be held responsible for any loss or damage.
Can anybody fly in a balloon?
Anyone from 8 years upwards. One must be fit and well, able to stand for one hour and should be able to bend ones knees a little.
How do balloons fly?
Hot air balloons operate on the basic principles of gravity and heat transfer. The propane burners warm the air inside the balloon envelope to as much as 250*F allowing the pilot to take the balloon up to whatever altitude he or she desires. Gravity pulls us back to earth as the temperature cools down. Of course the pilot can continue heating the air to prolong the flight or to control the rate of descent.
Why do balloons fly only in the late afternoon or early mornings?
The air is almost always at its most stable point early in the day or late in the afternoon thus giving the passengers longer rides and of course more favorable landing conditions (winds generally under 10 knots).
How can a balloon steer from one place to another?
Although a pilot cannot turn a balloon right or left he or she can usually maneuver in various wind currents in several different directions giving a reasonable degree of directional control.
Do you only fly during certain months?
No, we fly all year round but in the winter months there is a greater chance that the flight will be cancelled if the winds are to strong.
Can I bring along a camcorder?
Certainly, we encourage you to record this magical moment for future enjoyment but don’t bring a huge video case as space is somewhat limited.
Can an elder person fly in a balloon?
Of course, 94 is the oldest we have flown to date!
What provisions can be made for passengers with disabilities?
Sorry. We are bound by the laws of the civil aviation safety authority and as such are not allowed to carry disabled passengers.
What if I am afraid of heights?
Unlike standing on a cliff or the edge of a building, the baskets 120cm sides and sturdy floor offer you a safe and secure feeling, there is none of that vertigo feeling. There is no motion, swaying, or vibration as the balloon moves with the wind. Persons who might suffer from motion sickness on a boat or in a car will not be bothered while in a balloon.
How many other people will be flying with us?
Our baskets range in size from two to twelve passengers. In the larger balloons we have separate compartments that carry 3 or 4 passengers each so there is ample room for everyone.
