Flight Planning

     Planning for a flight starts with good weather information which can be gathered from many sources such as, web sites, national weather service, flight service, local TV forecast. All flights will be at the Pilots discretion. Once you have decided to fly, the crew needs to be lined up, and a capable driver is very invaluable. When deciding on passengers, the payload needs to be calculated based on the aircraft limitations and the outside or ambient temperature. The flight path must be determined. Because balloons flow with the winds, a pilot does not want to fly into an area that could be troublesome. Knowing your air space is vitally important. Are your radios and GPS's charged and operational. Do you have a sectional map as well as a local map of the area you are flying in. Cameras are a must have so you can take photos during the flight incredible views you will experience. Wearing the proper clothing is a must.