FAQs About Hot Air Balloons

Who created the first hot air balloon?

The very first hot air balloon was created in 1783 by brothers Jacques and Joseph Montgolfier. The first hot air balloon was made of fabric that was coated with alum to prevent it from catching on fire. It traveled for eight minutes and carried a chicken, duck and sheep. When the animals survived the trip, the Montgolfier brothers knew they were on to something! Two months later, a military major and a physics professor became the first two people to ever ride in a hot air balloon.

How do hot air balloons fly?

Hot air balloons are very simple in design and use propane fuel to gain altitude. Hot air rises as compared to cold air. This rising hot air, powered by efficiently burning fuel, causes the balloon to lift. More flame makes the balloon go higher, and opening a special valve allows it to descend.

Are hot air balloons safe?

As long as they're flown by a qualified pilot in good weather, then yes! Today's companies that offer hot air balloon rides have crews of experienced people who check every aspect of the balloon and the weather before each flight. There's even a crew on the ground that follows the balloon during the entire flight. To make sure your flight is as safe as it can be, make sure the organization you fly with is qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable by doing a little research or even checking references.

How high do hot air balloons go?

The normal hot air balloon will normally reach around 3,000 feet above ground level. This is what is known as low level flight as compared to other flying vehicles like planes.

How long does a normal hot air balloon ride last?

The average hot air balloon ride lasts around an hour. The distance traveled depends on various factors like piloting and wind conditions.

When is the best time to take a hot air balloon ride?

Cool weather is preferred to hot weather. Also, most pilots prefer to fly either right after dawn or right before dusk. These times offer the best wind conditions for hot air ballooning.

Where can I find out more about hot air balloons?

The best thing to do would be to perform an Internet search. There are many different websites, clubs and organizations devoted to hot air balloons. You can even find the sites of various hot air balloon ride providers in your area and learn all the details about hot air balloons and riding in them.

Copyright 2006 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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