FAQs
1. How do I schedule a hot air balloon flight?
2. Where does the balloon fly to?
3. What is a PIC?
4. What time do balloons fly?
5. When is the best time of year to fly in a hot air balloon?
6. How old do you have to be to fly in a balloon?
7. What kinds of special occasions can be celebrated in a hot air balloon?
8. How can I join a hot air balloon crew?
1. How do I schedule a hot air balloon flight?
Flights are scheduled on a "first come" basis. Only a certain number of people can fly in a basket at one
time. If you have a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, it is best to call as soon as
possible to reserve space. Call 303-478-3531 to discuss your special day with us.
Check out the price list here. 2. Where does the balloon fly to?
A hot air balloon literally "goes where the wind blows." It is not possible to steer a balloon in the usual
sense, but a skilled pilot may move in a desired direction by taking the balloon to a different altitude
and finding a wind going the direction he wants to go. The pilot lands in the best place he can find,
preferably away from light poles or other obstructions.
3. What is a PIC?
The PIC is Pilot in Command. He is the captain of the airship, and makes all the decisions about if
and when to take off, where to land, and any other matters concerning the balloon's operation.
4. What time do balloons fly?
Traditionally, in this area, ballooning is an early morning sport. In some parts of the country/world,
at some times of the year, you may see late afternoon flights. In Colorado, it is not common for
balloons to fly at other times.
Balloons are more maneuverable and more fuel efficient when the air temperature is cooler. In cooler
air, the balloon becomes buoyant more quickly and is more responsive. Also, when the sun heats
the earth throughout the day, heat rising from the ground can make it difficult to control a balloon.
5. When is the best time of the year to fly in a hot air balloon?
Hot air balloons fly all year round. The best season is likely up to the individual. The conditions that
will keep a balloon from flying are if it is raining or snowing, if the wind is blowing very hard, or if a
storm is approaching.
6. How old do you have to be to fly in a balloon?
There is no absolute age limit to be a passenger in a balloon. A general thought is that if a child is
too short to see over the edge of the basket, the child will get bored really quickly. An hour flight won't
be much fun. It is not safe or allowed for an adult to hold a small child in the balloon.
There is no upper age limit for a balloon flight. We have taken many older people, often in their 80s
or 90s.
7. What kinds of special occasions can be celebrated in a hot air balloon?
Most types of special occasions have been celebrated in hot air balloons. Marriage proposals
and anniversaries are very popular; birthdays are often celebrated with balloon rides. Weddings
are performed in the balloon, or the ceremony is held on the ground and then the wedding party
flies away in the balloon. If you have a special event that you would like to make even more special,
we can probably help. We also provide gift certificates.
8. How can I join a hot air balloon crew?
All you need to do is to contact a local pilot and volunteer! Most pilots are always on the lookout for new
crew members. The pilot and other crew members will teach you all you need to know, and it is easy to
learn. The only requirements are good footwear, a clean pair of work gloves, and enthusiasm.