Balloon Questions and Answers 4

How much lead time to book a reservation? This will vary according to the balloon company you select. I would allow at least 3 weeks in season. If it is a special occasion, example: engagement party or wedding allow 2 months minimum lead time.
 
How much time should we allow? Most balloon companies usually start around 30 minutes before sunrise. Completion of flight certificate ceremonies and brunch may conclude about 4.5 hours after sunrise. Obviously this will vary depending on what is offered, ask your balloon company.

What are High Wind Landings? If the weather changes during your flight the wind velocity may increase. Pilots are trained to do high wind landings if winds rise above 10 mph or as required. Your pilot will hold a safety meeting prior to lift-off to prepare the passengers for unforeseen possibilities and to answer your questions. Just like the airlines. In a high wind landing the balloon is traveling across the ground  fast enough to have it stop its horizontal direction of travel on the first touch down is virtually impossible. Usually you will encounter several balloon basket bounces and the basket will tip over on its side. The envelope will also change to a horizontal position. The Pilot will open the vent to let the air out of the envelope and it will finally come to rest. But the basket will probably be resting on its side and all of the passengers will be laying down. It is more exciting than a predictable vertical stand up landing. How exciting!

Now, I have answered your questions and you may be thinking I would be willing to go out and see the balloons launching at sunrise, but I still have reservations about the whole idea. Why not make plans to have a look and see what you think, I'll bet you'll be ready to book a flight. If you still have questions I haven't addressed why not send me an email I will try to give you an answer. But when you are ready to schedule a flight be aware I have personally screened hundreds of balloon companies and selected only the best balloonists for you to select from. Not all balloon company's are created equal some have a more personal interest in your adventure than others. Schedule your flight today!

Happy landings!  Capt'n Clyde
Come back soon changes are taking place.