Frequently Asked Questions
Is it fun to ride in a hot air balloon
During a hot air balloon ride, you can expect to experience a peaceful and serene flight. You will see breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and may even spot wildlife from above. The flight will typically last between 45 minutes and 1 hour and will include a post-flight celebration upon landing.
Is it safe to ride in a hot air balloon?
Balloons enjoy an excellent safety record. Because we only fly when the wind is light, traveling the same speed as the wind, the chances of being injured are slight.
How Long do rides last?
Most rides last roughly 45 minutes to one hour. Total time for your experience will probably be around three hours which includes meeting you at a pre-determined location, checking in for the flight, instructions, inflation, the flight, post-flight celebration and driving you back to your vehicle.
How High will we fly?
That depends on what area we are flying over. FAA regulations require a minimum altitude of 1,000 feet over the highest obstacle when flying over congested areas like towns. Over non-congested areas like rural settings, we can fly much lower.
How should i dress?
During the flight the temperature inside the basket will be the similar to the temperature on the ground. Of course, before and after the flight the temperature will be affected by the wind on the ground. We recommend lace up shoes with low heel and clothes appropriate for the time of year.
How do i get in & out of the basket?
We do not have a door. The side of the basket have slots for stepping. You will need to swing your leg over the top. Our experienced ground team will help you if needed.
where will the balloon land?
The flight will take you in the direction of the wind and are typically 5-10 miles in distance. Your pilot will choose the best possible landing spot with a large enough area to safely land.
How will i get back to my vehicle?
Our ground team follows the balloon as it flies and will greet you upon landing. After the balloon is properly stored away in its enclosed trailer. You will be transported back to your vehicle.
How Much does a ride cost?
There will be a $100 deposit to reserve a flight. Call 515-205-4855 for pricing.
When can we fly?
We can fly year-round weather permitting. Rides take place at sunrise and a few hours before sunset seven days a week. Due to thermal activity during mid-day, we only fly for the first 2 or 3 hours after sunrise and the last 2 or 3 hours before sunset.
What kind of weather will we fly in?
All flights are weather dependent. Flights will take place in light winds which is 9 MPH or less. Flights will not take place if any chance of rain, thunderstorms or any other kind of bad weather exists.
where can we fly?
Most flights take place in central Iowa except within 10 miles of the Des Moines International Airport. If you want to fly over your home or some other landmark, we will try to make that happen.
do you have a weather cancellation policy?
Balloon flights are weather dependent. If your flight is cancelled, understand that it is for your SAFETY. If the winds are forecast to be 10 MPH or more and there is no chance of thunderstorms or rain within one hundred miles, we will not be flying. If your flight is cancelled, we will do everything possible to reschedule your flight. If you do not want to reschedule then you will forfeit your deposit.
How many people will the balloon carry?
We are insured to carry 6 passengers and the pilot. We are limited by the law of physics to an amount of weight (not counting the pilot) based upon the outside air temperature. For instance, on a warm day we can carry 1,000 pounds of passenger weight and on a cool day we can carry 1,500 pounds.
are there age limits for passengers?
Passengers must be at least 6 years of age and be able to see over the side of the basket which is 36 inches tall without standing on their tiptoes. For safety reasons we cannot allow children to fly with us who would require being held up to see outside the basket.
Do you offer private flights?
Yes, this will guarantee there will be no other paid passengers on board. The price for a private ride will be higher than a shared ride. There may be a member of the flight crew on board during the flight due to the requirements of the flight manual for minimum weight needed. Call 515-205-4855 for pricing.
are there phycal requirements for flying in a balloon?
There are no seats in the basket. Passengers must be able to stand for the entire flight unassisted and must be able to hold themselves in the basket when landing. We recommend checking with your doctor before scheduling a flight if you are concerned with your physical limitations. If you have any questions about physical requirements, please call 515-205-4855.
Do we offer Gift certificates?
Yes we do. Gift Certificates are great ideas for those who seem to already have everything.
Do we offer Gift certificates?
Yes we do. Gift Certificates are great ideas for those who seem to already have everything.