1. How long is the hot air balloon flight?
The hot air balloon flight lasts approximately one hour, depending on weather conditions and the suitability of landing sites, but you should allow at least four hours for the entire experience. This includes the meeting and journey to the take-off site, pilot briefing, balloon preparation for the flight, the flight itself, post-flight ritual with Prosecco, and the return to the original meeting place.
2. Where do we take off?
The choice of take-off location depends on:
- Weather conditions and wind direction
- Airspace suitability for the planned balloon direction
- Passenger preferences
It could be a field or any sufficiently large open space, free of obstacles, with the landowner's permission for balloon take-off.
3. When do we fly?
We schedule flights in the morning and evening, seven days a week. Morning flights are planned at sunrise or a few hours after it, and evening flights a few hours before sunset when the winds are calmest. In winter, it's possible to fly all day.
4. Why can't we fly during the day?
During the day, the sun heats the ground, creating thermals or rising air columns. These thermals cause updrafts and downdrafts, affecting the pilot's ability to control the balloon safely. Lower temperatures in late autumn or winter make these conditions less common, allowing for day flights.
5. What time do we meet for the flight?
Your pilot will confirm the exact meeting time for check-in. Meeting times vary throughout the year, depending on the available daylight hours (as hot air balloons can't fly in the dark).
For example:
Morning flight: meeting as early as 4:00 or as late as 8:30, depending on sunrise.
Evening flight: meeting as early as 16:00 or as late as 20:30, depending on sunset.
Daytime flight: anytime between 8:00 and 15:00.
6. How far will we fly?
Hot air balloons cannot be steered traditionally, flying where the wind takes them. The pilot controls the flight altitude by heating the air inside the balloon. The distance you'll cover depends on wind speed and how long it takes the pilot to find a suitable landing spot. You could fly a relatively short distance or as far as 20-30 km.
7. Where will we land?
As hot air balloons can't be steered, you never know exactly where you'll land. After about 45 minutes, the pilot will start looking for a suitable landing spot. The ground crew will track the balloon and aim to arrive shortly after landing, possibly even catching the balloon by hand.
8. What is landing like?
Flying in a balloon is a serene experience, but the adventure begins with landing. The basket may tip and drag along the ground before coming to rest. This is a normal landing procedure, and the balloon and basket are designed for comfort and safety during the flight and landing. You'll be in a safe landing position within the basket as instructed by the pilot. Many people find the landing exciting and consider it their favorite part of the flight.
9. Can the balloon fly over my house?
We'd love to promise this, but as hot air balloons can't be steered, it's a bit tricky. If you take off from your hometown or county, and the wind is favorable, you might see your house. However, please don't expect it to avoid disappointment.
10. Can family and friends come to watch?
Absolutely, we love having spectators join us! However, please be aware that the launch site may lack certain amenities, such as toilets and other facilities. Despite this, we warmly invite everyone to get involved in the preparation process or to follow the balloon's journey from the ground. This way, you'll have the unique opportunity to be the first to welcome back your loved ones and listen to their fresh, sky-high tales. Your presence adds to the excitement and joy of the day!
11. How should I dress for the flight?
For a comfortable and enjoyable flight, we suggest dressing as you would for a countryside stroll, tailored to the season and the weather on the day of your flight. Layering up with warm, comfy attire is a smart choice, and don't forget a hat to keep you cozy under the heat of the burners. Given the possibility of landing in damp or muddy fields, sturdy footwear such as boots or sneakers is crucial.
Participating in the balloon's inflation and deflation is a highlight for many of our guests, though it can be a bit messy. Opt for clothing that you won’t fret about getting a little dirty. Please avoid wearing high-end fashion, flip-flops, or high heels for safety reasons and to prevent damage to your clothes, for which we cannot be held liable.
12. Are there steps to climb into the balloon basket?
There are footholes along each end of the balloon basket to assist with climbing in and out. If you anticipate difficulties, inform the ground crew during check-in, and they will assist you.
13. How can I amend a date I booked?
If you need to change your flight date and it's more than three working days before your scheduled flight, you can cancel and book another date by calling us. If it's within three working days, cancellations are only possible under extenuating circumstances, such as medical issues.
14. How do I know if the flight is happening?
The pilot will contact you the day before for morning flights or during the day for evening flights, confirming the flight, meeting time, and location.