What is a balloon race? Ballooning stands today as a sport and a very serious race. Pilots are scored on their accuracy as they fly from launch point to one or two targets. As they pass over the target they toss markers as close to the center as possible. How big are hot air balloons? Hot air balloons vary in size from 14,000 cubic feet, which can carry one person, to 500,000 cubic feet, which can carry up to 12 people. The balloons can weigh from 300 – 600 pounds and can be as tall as five to 16 stories high.

What instruments are used to fly a Hot Air Balloon?
The licensed pilot will use an altimeter, a rate-of-climb indicator, a thermometer for inside the envelope, a compass and a map. A radio is on board to contact the ground crew and other aircraft, as well as the local airport control tower if necessary.

What are the best conditions for balloon flights?
Balloons fly best in cool weather with wind speeds less than seven knots. The best time for flights are up to three hours after sunrise and up to three hours before sunset.

Why don’t balloons fly during midday?
Thermals, created when direct sunlight heats the ground, causes the heat to rise quickly. During this condition, it creates tremendous turbulence, and is very dangerous. During thermals, the balloonist cannot control the balloon.