Before embarking on a hot air balloon flight, there are several essential factors to consider and understand to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s what you should know before taking a hot air balloon flight:

Safety and Precautions:

1. Weather Conditions: Hot air balloon flights are weather-dependent. Flights may be postponed or canceled due to adverse weather conditions such as high winds, rain, fog, or storms.

2. Health and Physical Fitness: Hot air balloon flights involve standing during the duration of the flight. Ensure you are physically fit and able to stand for an hour or longer.

3. Safety Briefing: Attend the safety briefing provided by the balloon company or pilot. Follow all instructions regarding boarding, landing procedures, and safety guidelines.

Flight Considerations:

1. Duration: Hot air balloon flights typically last about an hour, although this can vary based on the weather and the flight package.

2. Altitude and Comfort: Hot air balloon flights usually reach moderate altitudes, providing a comfortable and serene experience. Dress in layers as temperatures might fluctuate during the flight.

3. Swaying and Motion: Balloons move with the wind, and while the flight is generally smooth, expect some swaying and gentle movements during the ride.

4. No Control over Direction: Balloon flights are subject to wind direction, and the pilot navigates by ascending or descending to catch different wind currents. Passengers do not have control over the balloon's direction.

Booking and Logistics:

1. Book with Reputable Operators: Choose a reputable and certified balloon company with experienced pilots. Research reviews and certifications before booking.

2. Pricing and Packages: Different companies offer various flight packages. Consider what’s included, such as additional amenities, duration of flight, and any special offers.

3. Cancellation Policies: Understand the company’s policies regarding cancellations or rescheduling due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Etiquette and Behavior:

1. Respect for Equipment: Follow the pilot's instructions and be mindful of the balloon equipment, as well as the basket, ropes, and other components.

2. Space Limitations: Balloon baskets have limited space. Respect personal space and be considerate of other passengers.

3. No Smoking Policy: Balloons are highly flammable, so there is a strict no-smoking policy onboard.

Communication and Clarifications:

1. Communication with Operator: Before the flight, confirm the meeting location, flight timing, and any specific instructions provided by the operator.

2. Clarify Any Concerns: If you have any concerns or questions about the flight, discuss them with the company or pilot before the flight.

Understanding the safety precautions, flight dynamics, logistical details, and following instructions from the balloon operator or pilot ensures a safe, enjoyable, and memorable hot air balloon flight experience. Always prioritize safety and adhere to the guidelines provided to make the most of this unique aerial adventure.

 Hot air balloon flights are captivating and serene adventures that offer a unique way to experience the world from a different perspective. Here are the essential aspects you should know about hot air balloon flights:

How a Hot Air Balloon Works:

• Heating the Air: A hot air balloon operates on the basic principle that hot air is lighter than cool air. The burner, typically powered by propane, heats the air inside the balloon's envelope, making it less dense than the surrounding air.
• Lifting Off: As the air inside the balloon becomes hotter, the balloon starts to rise. The pilot can control the ascent and descent by adjusting the temperature of the air inside the balloon.

The Components of a Hot Air Balloon:

• Envelope: This is the fabric bag that holds the hot air. It's usually made of materials like nylon or polyester and can come in various shapes and sizes.
• Basket: The basket or gondola is where passengers stand during the flight. It's typically made of wicker or other lightweight materials.
• Burner: The burner is what heats the air inside the balloon. The pilot controls the burner to regulate the balloon's altitude.

Preparation for a Hot Air Balloon Flight:

• Safety Briefing: Before the flight, passengers receive a safety briefing, including instructions on boarding, landing positions, and safety protocols.
• Weather Conditions: Hot air balloon flights are highly weather-dependent. Pilots carefully assess weather conditions, including wind speed and direction, to ensure safe and enjoyable flights.

The Flight Experience:

• Serenity of Flight: Hot air balloon flights offer a peaceful and serene experience. Unlike other forms of aviation, the balloon moves gently with the wind, providing a smooth and calm ride.
• Scenic Views: Passengers enjoy stunning panoramic views from above, witnessing landscapes, landmarks, and wildlife from a unique vantage point.

Duration and Landing:

• Flight Time: Hot air balloon flights typically last around an hour, although this can vary based on weather conditions and the specific flight package.
• Landing: Balloon landings are generally gentle. The pilot chooses a suitable landing site and coordinates with the ground crew for a smooth touchdown.

Safety Considerations:

• Certified Pilots: Hot air balloon pilots are licensed and trained to ensure safe and controlled flights.
• Safety Equipment: Balloons are equipped with safety devices and emergency equipment for unforeseen circumstances.

Booking a Flight:

• Booking a Ride: Interested individuals or groups can book hot air balloon rides through certified companies that offer flight experiences.
• Cost: Prices for hot air balloon rides can vary based on the location, duration, and additional amenities included in the experience.

Hot air balloon flights offer a tranquil and captivating way to view the world from a unique perspective. They provide an opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and landmarks in a peaceful and remarkable way. Safety, weather considerations, and the expertise of the pilot are key factors for a safe and enjoyable flight experience.

There really are countless ways to enjoy the Wasatch Mountain Range. You can slide down them when it’s snowing, or bike down them when it’s warm. You can hike them, camp in them or wildlife-watch in them. Many of the most adventurous among us have done all of that and more. Think you’ve seen it all? Think again. One of the truly unique ways to enjoy the mountains is from above! In a hot air balloon! You’ve seen our gorgeous mountains every other way; from the cozy confines of a hot air balloon, you can gain a whole new appreciation for them.

So, where to begin? Thankfully, this is not a new idea, and there are several hot air balloon guides that will take you up and blow your minds. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this activity takes some planning, especially in the time of COVID-19. Many hot air balloon touring companies are limiting trips to private group-only to reduce interactions between strangers. So if you want to float the friendly skies, you’ll want to put your own group together (preferably already within your quarantine bubble!) and make a reservation ahead of time.

Here are two of your options for getting into the skies above Park City:

Bigfoot Balloons
385-285-5899
Bigfoot Balloons offers one-hour flights and they leave from 6065 Silver Creek Drive in Park City. You’ll cruise at 1,500 feet and, as is hot air balloon tradition, cap off the adventure with a champagne toast!

Skywalker Balloon Company
801-824-3934
While Skywalker offers flights from Ogden, Heber and St. George, it calls the Park City tour its “signature” European mountain experience. Flights leave at sunrise, and groups meet at the Best Western Landmark Plus, 6560 N Landmark Drive. Increased vehicle and equipment sanitization is in place, as well as free masks and hand sanitizer for all passengers.

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Hot air balloons will take over the skies of Boise Sept. 2-6.

It's an event many long-time Boise residents can't imagine life without.

"Being a local kid myself, this is something I didn't even know was one central event. Just something I thought happened in Boise every day," said Mateo from 103.5 KISS FM.

People involved in this year's event, like Mateo, have high hopes that it will help our community through a difficult year.

"It's something that especially right now while we're all so distanced can bring an entire community together," Mateo said.

CBS2 is proud to join Townsquare Media and CapEd Credit Union in sponsoring the event.

Make no mistake -- the community's health and safety is the top priority.

"We're feeling great about it, we're going to follow all the guidelines, we're excited to bring a bit of energy and hope to the community," Mateo said.

Organizers of the spirit of Boise are meeting with city and health officials to talk about how they can make the event safe for everyone involved.

As those details are released, we'll share them with you.

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BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — "Finally we have something we can look forward to. It's like a real Boise tradition," said John Moug and Angie Morales of "Moug and Angie in the morning."

We certainly do have something to look forward to.

The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic is returning for its 30th year.

Mark your calendars.

Hot air balloons will begin lifting off from Ann Morrison Park on Sept. 2.

This is video from our drone of last year's event.

Organizers, including our friends at Townsquare Media's MIX 106 , are taking the health of the community seriously.

"We're working with the city and with the state and with the FAA and everyone is taking COVID-19 into consideration and we just want to make this the safest event possible," Moug and Angie said.

Once all meetings with city and health officials are complete, we'll update you on any adjustments.

CBS2, Cap-Ed Credit Union and Townsquare Media are proud sponsors of the event.

Throughout our coverage, we'll also be honoring founder Scott Spencer, who died earlier this year from cancer.

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