How much does the balloon cost?
The cost of a balloon varies depending on the size and average from between $70,000 to $250,000 per balloon.
How high do you fly in a hot air balloon?
How high we fly depends on the wind patterns on the day. At different heights there are different wind layers in which the wind has different speeds and directions. On an average hot air balloon flight we go from tree-top level up to between one and three thousand feet.
How does a balloon fly?
Hot air balloons fly as hot air rises. Hot air rises because it is less dense than the cooler air around it and so it tends to ‘float’ on the cooler air. We use a burner to heat the air in the balloon until it is hotter than the air outside the balloon. Once this is effected the balloon will rise, carrying us with it. If we were to allow the balloon to cool it would begin to descend as it becomes the same temperature as the external air. If we were to let some of the hot air out of the balloon the same thing would happen because there would no longer be enough hot air in the balloon to lift us. Gas balloons work on a similar principle except that they use helium gas, which is less dense, and therefore lighter than air to achieve the same effect.
Is it colder during flight?
Generally it doesn’t get much colder than what it is on the ground. You don’t feel any wind because you are moving at the same speed as the wind. We also find that the burner acts as an excellent provider of heat.
What should I expect to happen on a flight?
You can expect an unrivalled feeling of freedom and exhilaration as you gently float above the beautiful Hunter Valley.
Why do you fly so early in the morning?
Although we need some wind to fly the balloon we can’t fly if there is too much wind. We fly early morning because the winds are at their calmest. Also, a lower ambient temperature means that it is easier to get the balloon off the ground and keep it in the air and we don’t need to heat it to such a high temperature. This in turn means we don’t use so much gas and can fly longer and also no passenger should miss the spectacular Hunter Valley sunrise.
Which season is the best for flying in a hot air balloon?
Thanks to the stunning sunny weather in the Hunter Valley we are lucky and fly all year round. We continually check weather patterns throughout the day and we are directly linked to the Bureau of Meteorology to determine flight conditions.
Where do we meet on the morning of the flight?
All our flights use Blaxland Inn as the meeting point and is very easy to find especially early in the morning. Passengers are invited iinside to use restrooms before completing our safety briefing and heading out to one of 20 launch sites to setup the balloon.
How far in advance do I need to book?
If you have a large group or would like to fly on a weekend it’s recommended you book two weeks in advance. If you have predetermined dates then let us know as soon as you can so we can ensure you secure your spot and don’t miss out.