black balloon
 

frequently asked questions

home page frequently asked questions where do we fly pilot requirements balloons over charlotte history faa requirements weather requirements pricing information why choose balloons over charlotte how to contact us

BALLOON ADVENTURE
There is something particularly captivating about the sight of a hot air balloon rising effortlessly into the sky. It’s a majestic scene. Our professional pilot will take you on magical excursion at the most beautiful times of the day which occur just after sunrise and about two hours before sunset. Dawn and dusk provide the most romantic setting imaginable and exceptionally dramatic lighting for all photographs.

Your flight will begin with the gentle lifting of the balloon as you float up and away on this picture-perfect experience. You have discovered the joy and tranquility of Ballooning and realize YOU CAN FLY.

A whole new world unfolds before you as you float along seeing natures ever changing – panorama below. The fascinating silence is punctuated only by the music of bird’s singing, dog’s barking and other sounds of the world; and occasionally, the hiss of the burner, as the pilot makes flight adjustments.

Most flights give you an opportunity to talk to the folks on the ground, as they stop their daily routine to gaze aloft at the beautiful and forever remembered balloon floating so peacefully by.

Montgolfer Brothers started ballooning with their first flight in 1783, in Paris, France. They also started the Champagne tradition to toast the occasion, be it, a Birthday, Anniversary or just a “Fun Day”.

 

IS AGE, HEALTH OR WEIGHT A CONSIDERATION?
YES, Children need to be at least 7 years old. You must weigh no more than 220 lbs. You must be able to climb into and out of the basket without assistance.
HOW HIGH DO WE FLY OUR BALLOONS?
The balloons fly at altitudes around 1000 ft, except during takeoff and landing.
WHAT TYPE OF TRAINING DO BALLOON PILOTS HAVE TO HAVE?
All pilots are required to have a valid commercial hot-air-balloon rating issued by the FAA.
IS THERE A FEELING OF MOTION DURING FLIGHT?
No. There is nothing that makes the basket sway in flight. It hangs motionless in the air mass in which it is suspended and if you hold a candle in your hand as you fly, it will not flicker.
CAN YOU STEER A BALLOON?
There is no device with which to steer, but our highly skilled and professional pilots are remarkably adept at using the variation in wind direction at different altitudes to frequently rudder their balloons.
HOW MANY PASSENGERS CAN OUR BALLOONS HOLD?
Our company has 2 balloons. The small balloon carries 4 to 6 pass; large balloon 8 to 10 pass.
IS IT COLD IN THE BASKET WHILE FLYING?
It is not any colder than the air temperature on the ground would be prior to liftoff. You move with the wind so there is no wind chill factor.
WHAT YOU GET

1. Your flight-an aerial adventure never to be forgotten.
2. Complimentary refreshments served after your flight.
3. Return transportation.

HOW LONG

All this takes about 3 hours and the flight itself is about 1 hour.

HOW FAR

We never know. It depends on the will of the wind, but usually never more than 15 miles.

WHAT TO WEAR

We prefer full-cover clothes and shoes, occasionally we go on safari. Dress according to the out side air temperature on the ground. It doesn’t get any colder in the balloon.

WHERE DO WE MEET

We meet at 19357 H.M. Junker Dr Cornelius NC.  Please go to our Where Do We Fly web page or Mapquest for directions.

COST

Regular price - $ 199.00 per person Non-refundable discounted rate - $ 165.00 per person with a 3 day advanced purchase. Ticket is non-refundable. Has a 2 year expiration date

OFFICE HOURS

Our office remains open all 7 days a week to answer questions and schedule flight. Hrs. 8:30AM to 5:30PM

BALLOON FLIGHT SCHEDULING

We book rides 7 days a week, all year long-weather permitting

FOR YOUR SAFETY AND PLEASURE

We require the weather to be perfect when we fly and it is not uncommon for a person to be rescheduled several times. Please be patient with us. Once you do get up you will agree it was worth the wait.

WHEN YOU CALL TO SCHEDULE

Please have your ticket numbers ready when you call our office to book your flight.

THE DAY OF YOUR FLIGHT

Be sure to call our office at least 3 hours prior to your flight time to check current weather conditions and location for the flight.

CANCELLATION POLICY

If you need to cancel, please call at least 48 hours in advance. If you cancel your flight less than 48 hours for whatever reason we won’t be able to re-schedule you if the balloon flies that day.

If you have any additional questions, please call us at 704-896-5241 or e-mail us at