Balloon Flight Checklist

Ever Wondered Why Hot Air Balloon Rides In Melbourne Only Take Place At Sunrise? Why do hot air balloon flights occur only at sunrise? We’ve got the answers right here, and believe us, it’s more than just because the view is more beautiful. Safety is our number one priority. Several of our customers have asked us why we do not operate during the day and into the afternoon — so we’ve decided to give you a proper explanation. Before we delve into the science of it all, we’d like to ask you something? What better time is there to overlook Melbourne’s Royal Botanical Gardens than at the gentle peacefulness of the stillness of dawn? But let’s get on with the reason we fly our hot air balloon rides at Sunrise, it’s simple: Calm Conditions For the envelope (this is the actual balloon) to rise the pilot heat up the inside of the envelope with hot air to cause the air inside the balloon to become less dense and lighter than the air outside the envelope. When this happens, the balloon can lift. The amount of lift depends on the difference between the temperature of the air inside the balloon and the temperature of the air outside the balloon. Sunrise is the ideal time for pilots to utilise the cooler calm conditions. Day-time influence The temperature during the day increases, and by midday, the rising temperature from the ground causes a phenomenon called Thermals, which are like long columns of air pockets that rush up and down. The Thermals can cause drafts in the atmosphere, which would directly affect the control a pilot has on the hot-air balloon. Other factors Typically, during the day, the fast-moving air at higher altitudes mixes with the cooler and slower-moving air from the curvature of the earth, which can cause gusts of particularly unpredictable winds. Of course, this will affect the level of control pilots have, regarding steering and managing the buoyancy mid-air. For these reasons, BalloonMan only offers flights at Sunrise. But there is something fantastically beneficial about this scientific restriction — this is the best time to take in the views of the Melbourne Think of the great places you can see while flying over Melbourne: we often fly over sites such as the Royal Botanical Gardens, Yarra River, Rialto Tower, Arts Centre and so many other of our pristine parks, gardens and wonderful landmarks. Call us today on 1800 HOT AIR (1800 468 247) or Book Online Now and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.

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Do you truly want to be happy? Then come fly with BalloonMan Then science says you should spend more money on once in a lifetime experiences than material things… We’ve all seen the bumper sticker that says, “Collect Moments, Not Things”. But did you know that there is a lot of truth in this statement? According to research conducted by the San Francisco State University that was published in the online Journal of Positive Psychology, people often buy material things, believing it will bring them happiness and that it is a better use of money. However, when it comes to things that improve one’s well-being, experiences come out on top. There has been much research dedicated to the topic of experiences versus things, and they all offer unique insights into why people should be choosing one over the other. Many studies show that material purchases don’t provide long lasting pleasure because we soon grow accustomed to them. It’s the old saying: “The novelty wears off”. Often a better version of what we have purchased will come out just after we’ve bought it, making us regret our purchase. We also often enjoy the anticipation and build up to the purchase more than the actual purchase itself. The moment we complete the purchase the thrill is over and we’re left seeking more. The good thing about choosing an experience over a thing is that it doesn’t have to be dramatic or flashy to work. Many people assume that for an experience to be beneficial, it needs to be expensive or large – like climbing Mount Everest or taking a month off to explore Europe. Research shows that the experience can be small or short and still have a very positive affect on a person’s well-being. It also shows that when we share experiences with people close to us, we feel more connected with them – something that does not happen during shared enjoyment of a material object. So, the next time you have some cash to spare and are considering buying the latest smart gadget or popular fashion accessory, ask yourself if you will still enjoy it in a month’s time. Perhaps a better use of your money would be to take your spouse for a sunrise hot air balloon ride instead. This way you can build long lasting memories and a better emotional connection that will last long after your ride is over. Come Fly with BalloonMan book your Hot air Balloon Flight Now

Unsure If A Hot Air Balloon Ride Is The Right Experience For You? Here Are Some Reasons Why You Should Come Fly with Us ASAP! You’ve heard about the great times your friends have had on their hot air balloon rides, but you’re not exactly sure it’s for you. If you’ve been looking for the right reason to go on your first hot air balloon ride, or need an idea for a great occasion, we’ve got some ballooning ideas just for you. A new way of looking at things If you ask anyone that’s been on a hot air balloon ride, they’ll tell you that it gives you views of Melbourne that cannot be seen in any other way. On your ride you’ll get to see Melbourne vistas like never before and catch a glimpse of our cities unique beauty. Get a new perspective, just like the legends It’s said that what separates us from the legends of our time is the fact that they continuously come up with new ways of seeing things. Makes sense, seeing how many industry leaders and brilliant minds, from Sir Richard Branson to famed astrophysicist Steven Hawking, have been on hot air balloon rides. Why not come for a ride, and see the world in the same way as they have? It’s great for special occasions If you’re looking to spice up an outing, or looking to do something that’s special and something a bit more out of the ordinary on days like Mother’s or Father’s Day, a hot air balloon ride can be just the thing. Give the gift of impeccable views, and a once in a lifetime experience. And of course, there are really, really… special occasions If you’re ready to ask the big question, and are keen to do something more than a dinner at a fancy restaurant, a hot air balloon ride on that special day is an experience you and your life partner are sure to remember for the rest of your long and happy life together. It’s an excellent choice for buckets with lists in them We keep going on about the once in a lifetime experience thing, but we feel that thousands of happy balloon riders can’t all be wrong. If you want a unique experience, catching the sights and sounds of our city, while not having to worry about driving, a hot air balloon ride should be on your to do list. If you’re interested in seeing Melbourne like never before; contact us today to schedule your hot air balloon ride! Call Free Call: 1800 Hot Air (1800 468 247) or Book Online Now

We Answer Your 7 Frequently Asked Questions – About Hot Air Ballooning In Melbourne A hot air balloon tour is a fantastic way to experience Melbourne city and one of the top things to do when visiting the city. We answer your top seven burning questions on hot air ballooning. Why are hot air balloon flights booked on early morning schedules? Early mornings are the most opportune times for hot air ballooning. The winds are lightest at dawn, and we need settled conditions to operate a balloon safely. Later in the day when the temperatures heat up, balloons cannot fly safely. At what level do hot air balloons fly? Hot air ballooning is usually experienced from tree top level to as high as 3000 feet. The optimal flight level is a low-level one as this affords the best vantage for viewing. I have a fear of heights. What do I need to know about a hot air balloon flight? It is a very natural human reaction to have a fear of heights, after all, humans cannot fly. However, after flying with us, many people who claim to be fearful then go on to confess to having enjoyed a pleasurable flight experience, (no fear whatsoever) as hot air balloons rise and float gently and slowly, there is absolutely no sensation of movement, as we are moving with the wind, minimising any uncomfortable sensations similar to motion sickness, there is none of this whatsoever. It’s not anything like being near the edge of a cliff or a tall building, as there is no fixed point of reference, so there is never a real fear of height experienced. How is a hot air balloon navigated? A fully licensed and experienced pilot is in control of the balloon, from beginning to end. Balloons are not steered, rather the pilot will climb and descend through various air currents, all these are travelling in different directions. The pilot will use these various wind directions to change the direction of the balloon’s flight path. Successful hot air ballooning is also very reliant on the pilot’s intimate knowledge of local geographic effects on the winds. What do I need to bring on a hot air balloon flight? It is best that you bring only essential items along with you in the basket, as space is limited. Passengers are welcome to leave any bags, backpacks etc. in our vehicles, as the vehicle will follow us on the ground and meet us where we land. Items that prove most useful to carry on-board the flight include: a camera, sunglasses and a hat or cap. What should I wear? It is important that you are comfortable during your flight so dress in layered clothing to keep the morning chill out and you can easily remove outer layers as the temperatures rise later on. Closed-toe, sturdy shoes are the best option to help you climb up into the basket and remember you will be on your feet throughout the flight. Is hot air ballooning governed by any regulations? Yes, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority CASA conducts routine airworthiness checks on hot air balloons which are all fully registered aircraft. Pilots are licensed and need significant experience prior to flying in the airspace over Melbourne, plus they all need to be certified by CASA. If you have any questions that are not addressed above, please contact us at BalloonMan or Call 1800 HOT AIR (1800 468 247). We have experienced and knowledgeable staff to address your concerns. We look forward to providing you with a safe and enjoyable hot air ballooning experience in the skies over Melbourne. We offer all our passengers a 5-Star champagne buffet breakfast, in Collins Kitchen at the luxurious Grand Hyatt to celebrate their hot air balloon tour.