Training Requirements

1. To be eligible for a free balloon private pilot’s license a person must be at least 16 years of age
2. Students have to pass “ground school” with a written test on such items as: Civil Aviation Regulations covering e.g. flight procedures; use of navigation charts; recognition of weather conditions and use of weather reports; operating procedures with gas and hot air balloons.
3. Student pilots may solo after demonstrating to their instructor that they are familiar with Civil Aviation Regulations and are proficient in the following aspects of a balloon operation:

• Pre-flight preparation
• Operation of controls
• Lift-off and climb
• Descent and landing
• Tethered flights
• Emergency situations

4. Flight experience must include at least 16 hours dual training in free balloons.
5. With more experience and training, the pilot can join a commercial operation, which enables the pilot to fly for remuneration or to instruct others to fly.

Become a pilot

How long does it take?
As we have excellent flying conditions in SA, it is possible to obtain your PPL (Balloons) within three weeks. However, we do not recommend that the training be rushed and suggest that a period of six months would be advisable. The minimum practical flying training is 17 hours, and when you are ready, you take a test flight with an examiner, and make a solo flight.

In addition, you must pass written examinations in Air Law, Meteorology, Navigation and Aerostatics (the theory of ballooning)

You are also required to undergo an Aviation medical examination, and to obtain a Restricted Radio Telephony License.

You must not be daunted by all this: the standard required is based on common sense, not academic brilliance. Learning to pilot a balloon is like learning to fly a plane. The difference is that instead of learning aerodynamics, you learn aerostatics and tasks must be done in a balloon. After qualifying, you obtain your Private Pilot’s License (Balloons) from the South African Civil Aviation Authority allowing you to take command of a balloon on your own.

As a qualified balloon pilot you get your well deserved wings after your course.

Where can I fly?
From any reasonably open space, given the owner’s permission, and taking account of controlled airspace and built-up areas. We have always enjoyed full co-operation from most local farmers, although it is best to check with a pilot who knows the area for sensitive locations. Types of licenses
• Private pilot (balloons) – you can join a club and do leisure flying.
• Commercial pilot – No commercial license currently in SA but with a commercial operating certificate, flights can be conducted for remuneration.