Are Hot Air Balloons Safe?

If you've ever thought about taking a hot air balloon ride, then safety was probably high on your list of considerations. You may think that just because hot air balloons are basic in nature, they're not as safe as more complex methods of air travel. This isn't the case -- hot air balloons are designed to be simple and safe at the same time!

One very important part of hot air balloon safety is weather conditions. Rain can damage the balloon envelope, and lightning can of course be extremely dangerous to a hot air balloon and its passengers. That's why pilots always perform detailed analysis of weather and wind conditions before taking a hot air balloon up in the air. There are small balloons called piballs that pilots release to check wind direction at a possible launch location. Most hot air balloon rides take place around sunrise, because the wind conditions are the best during this time.

A hot air balloon consists of three major parts: the envelope, the basket, and the burner. The envelope is the large balloon that is filled with hot air. Balloon envelopes are made from durable fire resistant nylon. The basket is the part of the balloon where the passengers ride. Baskets are crafted from wicker, a material that is lightweight, flexible, yet extremely strong. The burner is the part of the balloon that supplies propane gas to the pilot light, which is what causes the balloon to rise. There is a valve that the pilot can open to cause the balloon to descend altitude.

Not only are hot air balloon pilots trained and certified for ballooning, there is extra assurance on the ground in the form of a chase crew. The chase crew follows the balloon at all times to ensure maximum safety, as well as to collect passengers and equipment after the balloon lands. Because a hot air balloon has only vertical controls, it's often difficult to predict the landing site. With a chase crew, you don't need to worry about getting lost!

When you're in a hot air balloon basket on a ride, you don't have to worry about the basket tipping or shaking. The basket is extremely sturdy, balanced and safe, and there's no way anyone could fall out.

Another great way to ensure total safety when taking a hot air balloon ride is only to deal with experienced companies and pilots who have all necessary credentials and an excellent safety record. By taking a few simple precautions, you can make sure you take a fun and safe hot air balloon ride!

Copyright 2008 Thomas Proctor- All Rights Reserved

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Hot Air Balloon News:
World's balloons might fly BC skies - Battle Creek Enquirer

World's balloons might fly BC skies
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James Cameron's teen chum prizes an early script - Toronto Star

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