Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Book A Balloon Flight?

To book a flight simply fill in our booking form, check our on-line availability, email or call us on 01275 375 300.

When Are Flights Available?

The main flying season is from mid March to the end of October but this may vary slightly depending on the geographic area. Flights are available mornings and evenings during the week and at weekends. During the winter months a balloon flight voucher makes an excellent 'open dated' present, which can be used in the spring.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Fly?

There is no 'best time' to fly, we will only fly when the weather is suitable. Do not be misled into thinking that it is best to go in 'the summer' because you think that other times might be cold, it is far warmer on the flight than you imagine owing to there being no breeze, plus you have the radiated heat from the burners.

What Time Of Day Do The Flights Take Place?

Balloon flights usually take place within two hours of dawn and around two hours before dusk, as this is when the thermals are most stable. Times do vary throughout the year but during the summer meeting times are around 6am and 6pm. This will be confirmed when you call the check in line prior to your flight.

Where Do We Meet?

We usually meet in Ashton Court in Bristol, Royal Victoria Park in Bath and Llanarth Village Hall in South Wales. Maps will be sent with your booking packs and full meeting instructions will be given to you when you call the check in line prior to your flight. It is very important that you arrive at the meeting point at the correct time as it will sometimes be necessary to transport you a short distance from the meeting point to an alternative launch site, owing to the wind direction.

How Long Does It Take?

Ballooning is an experience NOT to be rushed. You should allow approximately 3 to 4 hours per flight. The actual time in the air is approximately one hour. Passengers are invited to participate in the pre and post flight preparation and dismantling of the balloon and this is all part of the experience.

What Happens If The Weather Is Unsuitable For Ballooning?

Ballooning is very weather dependent. You will be asked to telephone the Check In Line prior to the flight to check the weather. If It is unsuitable, you simply rebook for another convenient day. You can do this by either checking the availability on the web site or calling the Check In Line. A decision regarding morning flights will be made at 10.30pm the night before and a decision regarding afternoon flights will be made approximately 2 hours before the meeting time. When you book your flight you will be advised what time to call the Check In Line on the day of your flight.

Can I Pick A Fine Day Or Cancel My Flight If The Sun Isn't Shining?

No. If we consider the weather to be safe, the flight will take place. If you wish to postpone your flight date you must give the minimum period of notice in accordance with our terms and conditions. If you decide not to turn up or do not give the required notice you will lose your entitlement to a balloon flight.

If I Need To Postpone My Flight, How Much Notice Should I Give?

You may postpone or change your flight provided that you do so by telephone. For flights between Tuesday and Saturday inclusive you must give at least TWO FULL WORKING DAYS before the meeting time for the flight. For flights on a Sunday or Monday, you must give at least THREE FULL WORKING DAYS before the meeting time for the flight. 'WORKING DAYS' means Monday to Friday inclusive.

What Should I Wear?

The temperature in the air is usually the same as on the ground so clothing suitable for a country walk is ideal like trousers, long sleeves and flat shoes - and natural fibres are better than nylon. A hat or a cap is useful to protect your head from the heat of the burners. Also don't forget to bring your camera and twice as much film or an extra memory card!!

What Does Flying In A Balloon Feel Like?

Standing in a hot air balloon doesn't feel the same as standing on the edge of a cliff or being in an aeroplane - you're floating gently along with the breeze so there's no sensation of movement. The balloon doesn't so much as leave the ground as the ground leaves the balloon! You'll feel no acceleration or movement as you do in a lift or aeroplane. We float gently along with the wind, ballooning is a calm and still experience.

Are Spectators Allowed?

Spectators are welcome to watch the balloon launch, but it's our retrieval crew who are responsible for following the hot air balloon, meeting it on landing and taking you back to the launch site.

How High Does The Balloon Fly?

We normally reach between 500 and 2,500 feet high - and where allowed, we skim the treetops or climb to over 5,000 feet.

Can I Fly Over My House, Town Or Village?

Where the hot air balloon flies is entirely dependent on the wind, no two flights are the same, so it's not always possible to fly over a particular house, town or village. If you see balloons over your house, you maybe lucky and the wind maybe in the right direction!

How Long In Advance Do I Need To Book My Flight?

It's best to book two or three weeks in advance for weekday flights and earlier for more popular weekend, evening and bank holiday flights but we sometimes have flights at short notice so please call and check.

How Many People Will Be In The Balloon?

On a standard flight you will join a group of 12 people. The balloon baskets are divided into compartments for your safety. Exclusive, private flights for 2 passengers are available as well as slightly larger parties of 6 passengers. Telephone for further information.

Do I Get Any Mementos?

After your flight, we'll present you with a personalised certificate signed by your pilot. You can also buy any of the in-flight pictures we take using a camera attached to the hot air balloon. Sweatshirts, polo shirts, caps and stained glass balloons are available to purchase from your pilot.

Can I Take A Camera?

Yes, and twice as much film or additional memory cards as you think you might need, the views are spectacular. You are responsible for looking after your camera and personal possessions.

Is There An Age Or Weight Restriction?

There is no upper age limit, passengers must be able to climb in and out of the basket which is about 42 inches high (1.1m) and stand for at least one hour. Children must be 8 years old and be 1.4m tall (4'6"), a child under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Due to safety and operational requirements we cannot fly passengers whose weight exceeds 114kg (18 st).

Can I Fly If I Am Pregnant?

Unfortunately we are unable to take you if you are pregnant. If you find out that you are pregnant during the validity of your voucher, please contact us and we will be able to extend the voucher by 9 months.

Can I Fly If I Have A Disability, Medical Condition?

If you have a disability, medical condition or have recently received surgery it's best to check with your doctor first to ensure you're fit to fly. However, we're unable to fly anyone who is confined to a wheelchair. We may ask you to provide proof of your fitness to fly from your doctor. It is very important that you disclose any medical or physical condition that could be considered to affect your safety or the safety of others. You must not fly if you are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Can I Add Additional Passengers To My Voucher?

Yes. You can book additional flight vouchers using the web site, email or by telephoning us on 01275 375300 and we will be please to add additional passengers to you booking. Discounts are available for 6 or more passengers.

Do You Offer Balloon Flight Training?

If you'd like to learn how to fly a hot air balloon, we do offer training. For more information email or call us on 01275 375 300.