How safe is ballooning?
Some consider hot air ballooning to be one of the safest forms of flying.
However, there are risks with all sports. Balloonist accidents are typically
related to encounters with power lines or hard landings that cause broken
bones or muscle sprains. Some people wear helmets or kneepads to minimize
the impact of a potentially hard landing which cannot be avoided if winds
suddenly increase.
What about “vertigo” I am afraid of heights?
The flight is gentle and stable because you start from the ground and gently
lift up.
The sensation is not like fixed wing aircraft flight and is unlikely to
cause “vertigo”.
Can you smoke in the
balloon?
Asheville Hot Air Balloons strictly does not allow smoking in or around the balloon.
Can passengers bring
pets?
Asheville Hot Air Balloons strictly does not fly with pets in the basket. The blast valve noise is loud and may be frightening to dogs.
Can we drink alcoholic
beverages in the balloon?
No; the FAA does not allow alcoholic beverages to be consumed during the
flight.
Moreover, for your safety we would not bring glass bottles onboard. Upon
request the pilot will provide you with bottled water in plastic bottles
prior to the flight.
Can I take my children?
We encourage families to participate in hot air ballooning. There are a
few issues to consider in determining if children may fly.
• The sides of the baskets are 3 to 4 feet high therefore children who have
not yet reached this height may not be able to enjoy
the beautiful views.
• FAA regulations do not allow parents to hold or carry their children
during a flight.
• The burners may frighten a small child.
The
flight is gentle and stable because you start from the ground and gently lift
up.
