What instruments do
balloons have?
Balloons are equipped with an altimeter to indicate altitude and a variometer
which shows rate of climb or descent. A temperature gauge shows how hot
the fabric is on the balloon top. Each propane tank has a fuel gauge. Some
systems have a pressure gauge also. We fly with GPS uplink/downlink so the
chase crew can precisely pinpoint the location of the airborne craft.
What are balloons made
of?
What most people call the “balloon” is actually known as “the
envelope”. Balloon envelopes are made of rip-stock nylon or polyester
fabric. The fabric of the envelope is sewn to or around a tape or rope that
will bear the load placed on the envelope by the basket and its contents.
What are balloon baskets
made of?
The walls of the basket are usually woven from rattan wicker. Most baskets
also contain a support framework made of wood, aluminum, steel, cable, rope
or a combination of these materials. Baskets are designed so that the weight
inside the basket is transferred to the load on the tapes or ropes in the
envelope. Rattan wicker is used most often for the basket walls because
it is light in weight while at the same time being strong and flexible.
What fuel is used to
heat the air inside the balloon?
Propane; propane burns at 12-15 gallons per hour. Our smallest balloon
carries 40 gallons; our largest balloon carries 70 gallons.
What
most people call the “balloon” is actually known as “the
envelope.”
Call us: (828) 667-9943
Frequently
Asked Questions
How is a balloon inflated?
It takes three or four people to inflate and launch a balloon, because the
balloon is cumbersome on the ground. First the envelope is stretched out
and attached to the basket. A gasoline powered fan is used to blow up the
envelope quickly. Finally, burst of hot air from the burner completes the
process. As the heated air in the envelope rises to the top the balloon
becomes upright. The pilot continues to add burst of hot air until he/she
determines the balloon is ready to take off.
Does Asheville Hot Air Balloons carry oxygen in the balloon?
Oxygen is only required by the FAA if you fly above 12,500 for 30 minutes.
Our flights don’t exceed 8,000 feet and we carry no oxygen onboard.
How large is the balloon
we will be flying in?
“Bertha” stands 80 feet tall and 50 feet wide and is 140,000
cu ft.
“Fat Boy” stands 65 feet tall and 45 feet wide and is 105,000
cu ft.
“Patches” stands 60 feet tall and 35 feet wide and is 77,000
cu ft.
How long has Asheville Hot Air Balloons been in business?
We were established in 1981.
