Tethered Hot Air Balloon Overview

A tethered hot air balloon is a memorable addition to any event, but it requires careful planning and execution. This blog post breaks down the key safety aspects, from site requirements to weather considerations, to help you understand how we ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your guests.

Let’s talk about bringing a tethered hot air balloon to your event. It’s a fantastic attraction, but safety is always our top priority. Here’s how we’ll work together to ensure a smooth and safe operation:

Understanding the Setup:

• Space is Key:
  • We need a big open area, ideally at least 300 feet by 300 feet. Think of it as a large, flat, obstacle-free field. No power lines, trees, or anything that could interfere with the balloon.
  • The size of the balloon will determine the final space requirements. We will discuss this before the event.
• Anchoring is Critical:
  • We use heavy-duty vehicles as ground anchors to secure the balloon. This is not a light operation. These anchors need to be extremely strong and stable.
  • We will require access for the vehicles to drive into and around in the area for set up.
• Weather Matters:
  • We are very weather-dependent. Wind is our biggest concern. Anything over about 6 to 8 mph, and we’re grounded. We’ll be constantly monitoring the weather, and if conditions change, we’ll have to stop and or cancel operations.
  • We also will not fly if rain is imminent or forecast, or if thunderstorms are near or forecast.
• Perimeter Control:
  • We’ll need your help in keeping spectators at a safe distance. We’ll designate a perimeter, and your event staff can assist in maintaining it.

Understanding the Operation:

• Certified Professionals:
  • Our pilots are FAA-certified and experienced.  Our crew is also well-trained.
  • All tethers are performed at the discretion of the pilot in command and could be delayed/cancelled on-site due to weather/site conditions.
• Arrival and Set-up:
  • Operator with a ground crew and commercial pilot.arrives 1-2 hours prior to start of tether to set-up.
  • Set-up usually requires 30-45 minutes once on-site.
  • The ideal set-up is a recently mowed grassy field
  • Take-down usually requires 30-45 minutes from deflation of balloon
• Passenger Briefing:
  • We’ll give every passenger a safety briefing before they get in the basket. It’s important they listen and follow instructions.
• Controlled Ascent:
  • We’ll carefully control the ascent and descent, keeping the balloon within safe height limits, typically around 50 to 70 feet, but this can change depending on weather conditions.
• Constant Communication:
  • Our pilot and ground crew will be in constant communication throughout the ride.

What We Need From The Event:

• Clear Communication:
  • Keep us informed of any changes to the event schedule or layout.
• Site Access:
  • Provide us with clear access to the setup area. We arrive with 2 hours of start time and depart typically an hour after pack-up.
• Crowd Control:
  • We will need help to maintain a safe perimeter.
• Flexibility:
  • Understand that weather can be unpredictable, and we may have to adjust our schedule, cancel or stop operations.

What does it cost?

Let’s think about the 6 to 8 passengers balloon Tether Package

$5,600 for 2 hours (plus travel)
$2,200 for each additional hour

• 120 passengers per hour on average.
• Travel expenses are additional, if travel is necessary.

While we strive to provide an enjoyable tethered hot air balloon experience, please understand that this activity is subject to various factors beyond our control. Weather conditions, site suitability, and adherence to safety protocols are crucial for successful operation. We reserve the right to modify, delay, or cancel operations at any time due to safety concerns.

By engaging our services, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with hot air balloon activities.

It is paramount all event attendees understand and respect the designated safety perimeter and follow our crew’s instructions. This information is provided for general understanding and does not constitute a guarantee of operation. For specific event inquiries and detailed safety discussions, please contact us directly.