WHAT TYPE OF FUEL IS USED?
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) the same gas as used for the BBQ.
WHAT IS THE BALLOON MADE OF?
The balloon (envelope) is made from a combination of fabrics. Typically, a silicon coated nylon at the top, a rip stop nylon below and Nomex, a more fire retardant material at the bottom. The basket is made out of wicker, flexible yet incredibly strong.
DOES THE PILOT NEED A LICENCE TO FLY A BALLOON?
Yes, your Pilot holds a Commercial Balloon Licence issued by CASA (Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority), which strictly regulates all aspects of the aviation industry.
HOW WILL WE GET BACK TO THE MEETING PLACE?
The retrieve crew will follow us from below and your pilot remains in constant radio contact with them. When we land we pack up and go in the retrieve vehicle back to breakfast where you will have left your vehicles.
WHERE IS THE LANDING SITE?
Hot Air Balloons cannot be steered. However, wind flows in different directions at different altitudes and your experienced pilot will use these wind directions to manoeuvre the balloon to his intended landing site for the flight.
WHERE DO WE TAKEOFF AND HOW FAR DO WE FLY?
Your pilot will select a launch site on the day taking into account wind direction and speed. An alternative flight path (i.e. along the Murray River) may be chosen in the case of inclement weather conditions in the Barossa. Distance flown will depend on wind speed.
HOW LONG IS THE TOUR?
We fly for approximately one hour but the whole tour lasts about 5 hours.
HOW HIGH WILL WE FLY?
It depends on conditions on the day but could be as high as 3000 to 4000 feet taking in the breathtaking far-reaching views. Your pilot will also do some low level flying so that you can have a close look at what is going on below.
WHEN CAN WE FLY?
Ballooning is weather dependent but we schedule flights all year round.
IS IT COLD IN THE BALLOON?
It should not be noticeably different to ground temperatures.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
Bring your camera if you want to capture the fabulous views.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Wear casual clothes suitable for walking or hiking. Avoid light colours, as you may get a little dusty or dirty in the paddocks. It will get warmer as the day progresses so layers are ideal. The burners do generate a lot of radiant heat and some passengers feel more comfortable with a hat or cap on. Comfortable enclosed shoes, not thongs or high heels.
WHY DO WE MEET SO EARLY?
Hot Air Balloons need cool stable air so we aim to lift off at sunrise when conditions are most suitable. Meeting times will vary throughout the year but are approximately one hour before sunrise.