Important Facts About Balloon Flights In Colorado

By Della Monroe


The activity of flying or cruising in a balloon is called ballooning. The three main things that make it more popular are the quietness of the flight, the beautiful view and the lack of feeling of movement. The latter can be attributed to the fact that the aircraft moves into the direction of the wind and the passenger can only feel movements when entering different currents. Balloon flights in Colorado are definitely a must try out activity for everyone.

Piloting this balloon requires some effort mainly licensing and availability of equipment and is the reason why many people prefer to purchase a flight from companies that offer such rides. These rides can be enjoyed in various parts across the world but are mainly popular in areas that are most frequented by tourists.

Balloon festivals give many people the chance to watch them close up which is a good family outing activity. Such festivals have other fun things including amusement rides and many forms of entertainment. These aircrafts are known to reach extremely high altitudes with the highest ever reached being 21,290 meters and is the current world record.

The vessel has to have additional supply of oxygen for the people on board like all other unpressured aircrafts especially if it will reach and exceed a height of 3,180 meters. All launching activities usually take place during cool hours such as at dusk and at dawn. The reason for this being, the winds are lighter then which is good for the launching and flying as well.

Another hindrance to piloting is the air currents known as thermals that are brought about by heating of the ground and they can be controlled by ensuring the right time of launching is adhered to. In some instances this phenomenon can force down a balloon by affecting its climb ability. Prior to a flight, the pilot should confirm that the weather is suitable and locate a take-off point.

This point of take-off must be spacious enough to allow for the lay out and inflation of the envelope as well as be clear of obstructions such as trees, power lines and buildings. The weather must have good visibility and the winds should be slow to facilitate take off. The point should also be located such that the winds will move it to the direction of the expected landing site.

The setup process begins with the vessel being unpacked from its bag and spread out fully on the ground then connecting the burner and basket to it. In order for it to assume its basic shape, a fan is used to blow in cold air which is then heated by the burner. One member of this crew should hold onto a rope that is connected to the apex to prevent it from launching unexpectedly and swaying.

The pilot can control the altitude of their flight by altering the temperature of air inside the envelope while its direction is mainly determined by wind. Many balloonists opt to be followed by chase vehicle that will facilitate their return from the landing site. Communication between the two can be accomplished by radio or sometimes shouting.




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