FAQs

The actual flight normally lasts around one hour, depending on wind conditions and available landing sites. However, you should allow approximately 2.5 – 3 hours for the full experience including setup, passenger briefing, the flight itself, landing, pack-away, and return transport to the launch site.

We operate from a number of launch sites across the South West including Bristol, Bath, Cheddar, Wells, Glastonbury and surrounding areas. The exact launch site depends on the wind direction and weather conditions on the day to ensure the safest and best possible flight.

Unlike other aircraft, hot air balloons travel entirely with the wind. Wind direction determines both our route and safe landing options, so launch sites are selected based on the forecast conditions for each individual flight.

We recommend sensible outdoor clothing and flat footwear suitable for walking in fields. Early morning flights can feel chilly, so layers are advisable. High heels or sandals are not permitted.

Yes. Ballooning in the UK is highly regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority and all commercial operators must comply with strict safety and maintenance requirements. Flights only operate when conditions are suitable and safe to do so and we only use the best kit and pilots for our operation.

Most flights take place between treetop level and around 3,000 feet depending on airspace restrictions, weather conditions and the experience the pilot wants to create. Lower flying often gives the best views and photographs.

Absolutely. We actively encourage passengers to bring cameras and phones to capture the experience. Just make sure they are secure during take-off and landing.

Yes, children are welcome provided they are over 7 years old and tall enough to see safely over the basket edge, generally around 1.2m (4ft). All children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Usually not. Hot air balloons travel with the wind, so we normally land in a suitable field some distance away. Our ground crew follows the balloon and will collect us after landing- as long as we are nice to them!!

Unfortunately, we cannot carry pregnant passengers on balloon flights. Whilst flights are generally very gentle, landings can occasionally be firmer depending on wind conditions and uneven terrain. If you already have a voucher with us and find out you are pregnant please get in touch as soon as possible so we can make arrangements to extend the voucher accordingly.

Potentially, yes. Passengers must be able to climb into the basket using footholds and remain standing for the duration of the flight, including landing. Please contact us before booking so we can discuss your individual requirements honestly and safely.

Most balloon landings are very gentle, although some can involve a small bump or short drag depending on wind conditions and the landing field. Your pilot will provide a full landing briefing before take-off so you know exactly what to expect.

. We offer private flights for couples, families, proposals, special occasions, corporate events and media work. Please contact us directly to discuss availability and pricing.

Balloon flights normally take place shortly after sunrise or a few hours before sunset. These are the calmest and safest parts of the day for ballooning due to lighter wind conditions and more stable air. This can mean an early start in mid-summer (between 05:30 and 6am) or 8am/9am in spring and autumn.

We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly during the peak summer season. Weekend evening flights are by far the most popular and can become fully booked several weeks in advance. Where possible, look at mornings (which although early, are less prone to cancellation) or weekday evenings.

Yes. Standard vouchers are normally valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. We strongly recommend attempting to fly regularly during the validity period, as ballooning is weather dependent and multiple booking attempts are sometimes required.

Yes — if you would like to! Many passengers enjoy helping the crew inflate and pack away the balloon as part of the experience, although participation is entirely optional.

Many people are surprised by how calm and relaxing ballooning feels. Because the balloon moves gently with the wind, there is very little sensation of movement or height compared to standing on a building, bridge or ladder.

Not usually. Temperatures in the balloon are often similar to those on the ground, and the radiant heat from the burners can make the basket feel quite warm at times. Early morning flights can be chilly before sunrise, so layers and a cap are recommended.

Unfortunately not. Hot air balloons travel with the wind, meaning the route is determined by weather conditions on the day. Your pilot will select the safest launch site and flight path based on the forecast.

This depends on the balloon being used. Our baskets typically carry between 2 and 8 passengers, plus the pilot.

In many cases, yes. As long as passengers are reasonably mobile, able to stand for the duration of the flight, and can climb in and out of the basket safely, age itself is not usually a problem.

Water is absolutely fine and recommended on warmer days. Alcohol should not be consumed before the flight for safety reasons and we request no food.

The UK weather can be unpredictable, and cancellations are a normal part of ballooning unfortunately. We monitor the weather daily and update passengers as soon as possible prior to the flight date if scheduled flights may need to be postponed due to unsuitable conditions. There is no specific period where the weather is better, there can be as much rain/wind in July as in March some years.

For safety and operational reasons, we may need advance notice for passengers above a certain weight (18st).This does not mean you will not be able to fly, however please contact us confidentially before booking if you have any concerns.

Your experience will normally include:

• Passenger check-in
• Safety briefing
• Balloon inflation
• Approximately one hour flight
• Landing and pack-away
• Return transport to the launch site

The entire experience usually lasts around 2.5 – 3 hours.

Absolutely. Balloon flights make popular gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, retirements and special occasions. Gift vouchers are available year-round via post or same day via e-mail.

During the middle of the day, the sun heats the ground unevenly which creates thermal activity and turbulent air. Early mornings and evenings provide calmer, more stable flying conditions. Between October and March when there is less power in the sun we are often able to fly in the middle of the day.

Unfortunately this can happen with ballooning, particularly during unsettled weather periods. We understand it can be frustrating, but safety must always come first. Your booking remains valid and you can continue rescheduling within your voucher validity period. Many passengers fly on their first attempt, some take 3 or 4 but the more flexible you are the quicker it is likely we can get you up in the air.