|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
But I don't like heights!Flying in a high sided balloon basket is not like standing on the balcony of a high rise. You don't get that vertigo feeling, it is more as if the landscape is unfolding beneath you. And because you are moving with the wind, there is no wind blowing. The basket does not rock or sway.How is the balloon inflated?The envelope is stretched out and attached to the basket. A powered fan is used to cold inflate the envelope. When partially inflated, the air is heated with a burner and the envelope rises above the basket. With further heating, there is sufficient lift for the balloon to fly.How do you steer the balloon?The direction a balloon flies depends entirely on which way the wind is blowing, so balloons can't be steered to the left or right in the typical sense. But since winds blow in different directions at different altitudes, the pilot can steer the balloon by ascending or descending and finding a wind that will take the balloon in a good direction. The pilot changes the balloons altitude by using the burner to control the internal temperature of the envelope.Why do we have to get up so early in the morning?Balloons need cool, stable, calm winds to operate most effectively. As the sun rises the morning air is calm and tranquil, the perfect conditions for Ballooning. Our flights are always controlled, with our pilot's having an impeccable safety record.How cold is it up there?It is no colder flying in a balloon, than it is on the ground. In fact, it is usually warmer because you are standing under a very powerful burner with radiated heat. Also, as the balloon flies with the wind, there is no air going past you to take any heat away. You must be very high before the air becomes really cold.What to wear and bring?Light, casual clothes similar to hiking. Sunglasses, maybe a cap, walking shoes or joggers and in winter - a jacket may be required. A camera and money for souvenirs. White clothing is not recommended.Who controls balloons and balloonists safety?The Civil Aviation Safety Authority controls ballooning in Australia and the rules are very strict these days. All pilots are licensed by CASA and have to have regular medicals and check flights just like 747 captains. The balloons have to be inspected every 100 hours to make sure they are airworthy. Meeting Times
However, we ask all our passengers to call us between 7.30 pm and 8 pm the evening prior to their flights to confirm their meeting times and that we have favourable flying conditions. Breakfast is Included with the FlightBreakfast is included with the flight and is provided after the flight. Breakfast is served at the Fairway Tavern and Golf Club. Once our passengers arrive back at the Fairway Tavern and Golf Club the flights are toasted with a traditional pink cloud (which is a champagne and juice drink) and served with a fully cooked breakfast - bacon, steak, eggs, mushrooms, tomato, toast, cappuccino, tea, freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast all passengers are presented with a souvenir flight certificate. If you have never been, the ultimate experience awaits you! |
| | Home | Fact Sheet | Packages | Contact | |
|
Balloons Above Pty Ltd HATTON VALE QLD Australia 4341 Tel 61 7 54657 994 Email balloonsabove@bigpond.com |