Balloons cannot be steered – it floats gently where the wind takes it. However, wind conditions vary at different altitudes and provide the balloonist some limited ability to control the flight path. Many variables in the weather influence a pilot’s decision to fly. Most pilots agree that a breeze of 4 – 8 miles per hour is acceptable.

Balloons usually stay within 500 – 1500 feet of the ground, but can go much higher. The distance we fly depends upon the speed of the wind. Usually you can expect to cover between 5 and 25 kilometres.

The length of a balloon flight is determined by many factors, including the outside temperature and the weight carried. There is no such thing as an “average” balloon flight – each one is a unique, once in a lifetime experience. The flight itself, from lift-off to touch down, normally lasts at least one hour, sometimes slightly less, depending on the direction and speed of the wind. For planning purposes reckon on about 3 hours for the complete outing, including your post flight champagne celebration and journey back to the launch site. A retrieve team will collect you from the landing spot and take you back to launching site.
It is a very special feeling to have had your first balloon flight, and we celebrate this with a champagne toast – a tradition that goes back to the first ever flight in the 1700′s. Afterwards you can relax and discuss the exciting flight over a farmers’ breakfast or sundowner and snacks. You will get a certificate as evidence of your brave move and that “you own the sky”.