The envelope, is made of reinforced rip-stop nylon or polyester. The material is very light weight and strong. The fabric is coated on the inside to prevent leaks. The baskets are made from rattan; each is individually woven by hand.
First, the envelope is stretched out on the ground and attached to the basket, which is lying on its side. A small gasoline-powered fan blows air into the envelope. Then the burner is turned on, and the air in the balloon is heated. The hot air rises, lifting the balloon upright. Since a balloon is quite unwieldy on the ground, especially in gusty winds, it typically takes at least four people to get the balloon inflated.
The typical sport balloons range in size from 65,000 to 105,000 cubic feet in volume and stand about 70 feet tall.
The balloon goes where the wind takes it. However, the winds at varying altitudes may blow in different directions and at different speeds. The pilot ascends or descends to an altitude where the wind is blowing in the desired direction.
As fast as the wind. Or as slow, Since the balloon has no forward propulsion system, its speed is determined entirely by the speed of the wind. That's why balloon races are races of accuracy not speed.
Usually just after sunrise and one or two hours before sunset. This is when the wind is generally the calmest and the air most stable.
Most balloon flights occur about 1,000 feet above the ground. But balloons can fly at just above the ground or go much higher. The world record for altitude in a hot air balloon is 64,997 feet.
Normally, the balloon carries enough fuel to remain aloft for about 2 hours. Factors like outside air temperature, weight being carried in the basket and weather determine the duration of the flight.
Hot Air Balloons use propane, stored in pressurized tanks in the basket. The flame may shoot out as much as twenty to thirty fee. A typical sport balloon will carry about 30 to 40 gallons of liquid propane.
A chase crew, driving the recovery vehicle, follows the flight of the balloon trying to stay parallel or ahead of the balloon and attempts to be on hand when the balloon touches down. The balloon is then deflated, dissassembled and packed into the recovery vehicle.
Yes. A Balloon Pilot Certificate is required by the Federal Aviation Administration. You must pass an FAA written exam, have a prescribed number of hours of flight instruction in a balloon, make a solo flight and a flight to altitude, pass a flight test and oral exam with a designated fight examiner.