Frequently Asked Questions - Asheville Hot Air Balloons

Where do we launch?
We meet at the Balloon Port at daybreak. The exact launch site will vary depending on the wind direction and the time of sunrise. The pilot will select the departure site considering the wind direction and availability of good landing sites in the flight path.
How long is the flight?
Typically a flight last 45 minutes to an hour depending on wind speed on the morning of your flight. Please plan on being our guest for three hours to complete the ballooning process. First inflation, then flight, and finally packing up the balloon and toast to a fantastic ride.
Where will we land?
We will land downwind of where we took off from. The pilot will select a suitable landing spot and the chase crew will advise the pilot if landing spots provide easy access for the chase crew. Balloons have landed in many locations such as parking lots, golf courses, fields, ballparks, back yards, front yards, driveways, streets, roads, airports, schools, and even boat docks. The adventure of ballooning is the mystery of our destination.
What should I wear?
We recommend passengers wear comfortable hiking boots and layered clothing to accommodate all circumstances. It’s best to wear trousers/pants instead of shorts because landing in a field of briars could scratch bare legs.
How many people will be flying with me?
Each of our flights includes the pilot and a minimum of two passengers. Our largest balloon is rated to hold 12 passengers. We only allow 10 passengers. Private flights are available.

Why do balloonist typically end each flight with a champagne toast?
Historically, (dating from 1783 and the first flight of the Montgulfier brothers) hot air balloons typically landed on rural farmland. Early aviators would carry bottles of champagne onboard to prove they were fellow Frenchmen, to pacify the farmers upon landing, and to celebrate a safe and beautiful flight. The tradition is still performed out of respect for the heritage.
Do you need a license to fly a balloon?
Yes; hot air balloons are like airplanes and are governed by the FAA. Getting and maintaining a license is much like getting a fixed wing pilots license. Asheville Hot Air Balloons pilots hold commercial status.
Can anyone fly?
We recommend guest be over the age of eight and be physically able to climb into the basket. After that you need to hold securely to the top of the basket and brace your body for the impact of landing. You may need to walk from the landing and absorb normal risks (which may include but are not limited to) injury or fatality from flight, ground, landing operations, injury in a remote place without medical facilities, or damage to personal property or equipment). Individuals that are pregnant, have artificial limbs, or are under treatment for any infirmity (such as, but not limited to, osteoporosis, back problems, chronic ailments, or any other injury of any type that could be affected by hot air ballooning) should not fly.