Are Hot Air Balloons Safe?

Thinking of taking a hot air balloon ride? Then, safety was probably high on your list of considerations. Many people may think that just because hot air balloons are basic in nature, they're not as safe as more complex methods of air travel. This isn't the case -- hot air balloons are designed to be simple and safe at the same time!

== Travel Tips == The obvious consequence of booking your vacations online is that travel agents are used less and less. This gradual turn to travel websites has come about because more discounts can be found and you can book the vacation at any time of the day. Even though I will probably save a few dollars by using the internet, I continue to book my vacations face to face with a travel agent but I do admit to some serious searching on the internet to learn more about where I am going. It is actually much easier to go to your travel agent armed with all the information including costs as it can make it much easier to find what you are looking for.

One very important hot air balloon safety factor that comes to mind is weather conditions. Rain can damage the balloon envelope. Lightning can also be extremely dangerous to a hot air balloon and its passengers. That's why pilots always perform detailed analysis of weather and wind conditions before taking a hot air balloon up in the air. The pilots can also release piballs (which are small balloons) to check wind direction at a possible launch location. Most hot air balloon rides take place around sunrise, because the wind conditions are the best during this time.

What are the parts to a hot air balloon? The three major parts are the envelope, the basket, and the burner. The envelope is the large balloon that is filled with hot air. Balloon envelopes are made from durable fire resistant nylon. The basket is the part of the balloon where the passengers ride. Baskets are crafted from wicker, a material that is lightweight, flexible, yet extremely strong. The burner is the part of the balloon that supplies propane gas to the pilot light, which is what causes the balloon to rise. There is a valve that the pilot can open to cause the balloon to descend altitude.

Hot air balloon pilots are trained and certified for ballooning. They are further supported on the ground in the form of a chase crew. The chase crew follows the balloon at all times to ensure maximum safety, as well as to collect passengers and equipment after the balloon lands. Since a hot air balloon has only vertical controls, it's often difficult to predict or even choose the landing site. With a chase crew, you don't need to worry about getting lost!

When you're in a hot air balloon basket on a ride, would the basket tip over or shake? No. The basket is extremely sturdy, balanced and safe, and there's no way anyone could fall out.

== Travel Tips == About business travel... A little business travel tip that flight attendants use when they pack is to roll up their clothes, then place them into cylinders which compresses the clothing and reduces the number of creases. Dark clothing are very useful for traveling business people as it hides stains and dirt very well, so if you get sweaty or spill a coffee on the flight it won't be too noticeable.

Your safety when taking a hot air balloon ride is of utmost importance. Only to deal with experienced companies and pilots with the necessary credentials and an excellent safety record. By taking a few simple precautions, you can make sure you take a fun and safe hot air balloon ride!

Copyright 2006 Lawrence J. - All Rights Reserved

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