Safety Information

                       Balloon, pilot and passengers ready to go!

As with any flight related activity, a concern among passengers is the safety of flying in hot air balloons. In this section we attempt to ease your fear by providing you with some insightful information on the many safety aspects and regulations that govern licensing of hot air balloons and balloon pilots. We will address the following: pilot certification, balloon certification and flight briefing.

Pilot Certification

In order for a person to pilot a licensed hot air balloon in the US and carry passengers, her/she must posses at least an FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) issued Private Pilot Certificate with a Lighter-than-air rating. An individual wishing to carry passengers for hire must possess an FAA issued Commercial Pilot Certificate with a Lighter-than-air rating. The licensing process involves training of the pilot in all aspects of balloon flight operations and also requires that the individual complete a written as well as a practical examination in order to receive certification. Flight hour requirements vary with the level of certification sought by the individual. While you are not required to be a fixed wing (Cessna, jet etc) aircraft pilot to fly a balloon, most balloon rated pilots also fly other types of aircraft. A rated balloon pilot must maintain a certain level of flight proficiency to include at least three take offs and landings in a balloon every 90 days. A balloon pilot, like a powered aircraft pilot, must also have a flight review with another commercial balloon pilot/instructor every two years. The biannual review covers all aspect of balloon flight to include weather, emergencies, flight regulations and normal flight procedures. A pilot is required to have his/her pilot certificate at all times while operating an aircraft, including a balloon. Pilot certification requirements are outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations under Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) part 61. For additional information please visit www.faa.gov

Balloon Certification

Well no, the balloon does not need to take a written or practical exam , however, it does have to be designed, constructed, tested and maintained to strict FAA standards. Modern hot air balloons have been around since the 1960’s. The first balloons produced for sport and recreational flying had some very rudimentary design features. As the sport of hot air ballooning evolved technological advancements allowed for the improvement of balloon design, features, construction materials and techniques. Today’s balloons implement the same basic principals with much added safety, reliability and ease of operation. All balloons must be issued a certificate of airworthiness by the FAA. A commercial passenger ride balloon must have a standard airworthiness certificate that is carried aboard the balloon. The balloon must also have a certificate of registration issued by the FAA and the operations manual issued by the manufacturer. In order for the balloon to maintain its airworthiness certification, it must be inspected by an FAA designated Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic with Inspection Authorization or an FAA approved balloon repair station. Airworthiness standards for balloons are covered by CFR FAR Part 31 and are also outlined in the manufacturer’s maintenance manuals.

There are several reputable balloon manufacturers. Please visit their sites if you’re interested in learning about the different types of balloons. These sites also provide valuable information on balloon design and safety features.

www.cameronballoons.com

www.fireflyballoons.net

www.lindstrand.com

www.ultramagic.com

Health requirements

In order to ensure your safety and enjoyment during a hot air balloon ride, please consider the following:

• You should be in good overall health
• If you’ve had a recent surgery or injuries of any sort please let us know
• You must be able to stand for at least one hour
• You must be able to bend your knees slightly for landing
• Passenger must not be pregnant or suspect being pregnant
• Persons with disabilities will be accommodated on an individual basis

Flight Briefing

Before the flight, your pilot will give you a pre-flight briefing on what to expect. Please pay close attention the pilot’s instructions. Pilots are happy to answer questions and explain the principles behind balloon flight to passengers if time permits. The pilot’s most important task is to fly the balloon and ensure your safe enjoyment of the balloon ride.

• Pay close attention during the pre-flight 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 (powerlines, trees etc)
• Relax, have fun and enjoy the flight. Typically as the flight progresses passengers become more comfortable with flying in a hot air balloon. 

Sunrise from the balloon (left) Stan and Alina enjoy the post flight picnic (right)

Let’s go ballooning, so you can…

"Experience the Magic of Flight"

(305) 860-5830 or (305) 496-1297

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Balloon flights and tethers are weather dependent. All flights are early morning.Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Restrictions may apply. Policies, procedures and pricing subject to change without notice.