Hot Air Balloon Ride FAQs
How do I book a hot air balloon ride with Air Display?
Check Air Display's "SCHEDULE" page for availability and then call
(905) 767 8512 or send us a note via the form located on our "CONTACT" page (preferred). Please provide name, weight, height and age for each passenger, phone number and email address to reserve your flight. Except for Ride Certificates (third party booking), Air Display does not require advance payment.
How far ahead do I have to book a flight?
Passenger ride space is limited. Air Display conducts about 75 flights per year. Dates are booked on a first come first served basis. If a particular date is important to you, the sooner you book the better. Sometimes last minute requests can be accommodated. Ride Certificate recipients must contact Air Display (email preferred) to schedule their flight. More booking information may be found on the Air Display "RIDE PRICES" page.
How do I pay?
Except for Ride Certificates (third party booking), payment is made after the flight back at our meeting location. Air Display accepts cash, cheque (with identification), VISA or MasterCard. While gratuities are not required, they are appreciated and distributed equally between the Team.
When do I fly?
Air Display's usual flying season is May through October. Winter flights take place by special request only. For technical and safety reasons balloon flights are conducted at sunrise or two hours before sunset. Because all balloon flights are weather dependent, weather cancelations are not unusual.
How long is the flight?
Safety and navigation are the main factors determining flight duration. Changing weather, daylight and wind direction all play a role in determining flight time. Typical flight duration (air time) is 40 - 80 minutes. You should allow four hours for your entire adventure (return to rendez-vous site).
What time do we meet for the flight?
The exact meeting time will be given during your personalized flight briefing. Please do not arrive late for your scheduled meeting time.
When am I notified if my flight is cancelled due to weather ("no go")?
The personalized flight notification provides the passenger with the status of their flight, meeting location and time. It also provides an opportunity to answer any last minute questions. The flight notification is provided by phone and the passenger must be available to receive this call. For scheduled evening flights, the notification is at 14:00 hours (2 pm) of the same day. For scheduled morning flights, the notification is at 22:00 hours (10 pm) the night before.
Please be available to accept this call as we are reluctant to leave a message.
Where do we meet (rendez-vous site)?
Wind direction, speed and previous arrangement determine the rendez-vous site. Directions to this location will be provided by email and at your personalized flight notification call. Parking, restrooms and 24 hour restaurant service will be available at the meeting location.
Are there waivers or liability exclusion agreements required?
Yes. By scheduling a balloon ride with Air Display the passenger (or guardian) acknowledges consent of the Air Display "WAIVER" and agrees to any additional conditions as provided during the preflight briefing. A hardcopy of the waiver is available for your review and signature prior to your balloon flight.
Are there medical restrictions?Yes. Previous injuries could be aggravated. If you have a medical condition or questions regarding your capabilities please ask your Doctor for advice.
A few items to note:
· Passengers must be physically fit for modest exertion, able to see over the edge of the basket (4 feet), hang on by themselves and enter/exit the gondola (basket) unassisted.
· A jump from the seat of a kitchen chair would be typical of the landing
impact.
· Passengers may be required to hike from the balloon landing location to the recovery vehicle. These hikes may not be across level ground.
· If you have serious allergies please be prepared. This is an outdoor, rural adventure.
· If you have conditions which may require another person’s assistance, that person must fly with you.
How do I dress for my flight?
Always dress for the temperature on the ground and as if you are going for a hike. Best not to wear light coloured tops due to possible staining from occasional condensation drips (water) from overhead burners. Wear a ball cap if you are tall or if your head is sensitive to heat. No nylon jackets. Nylon creates sparks and is dangerous around propane (the fuel the balloon uses). A light weight, natural fibre jacket is best. Legs and arms should be covered to minimize insect irritation. NO high heals or sandals. Flat boots or shoes with rubber soles are best. Morning ground wetness (dew) is common.
Can we fly over my house, wedding reception, or farm etc.?
Specific balloon launch location requests for booked charter flights will be considered. Launch and landing site selections are critical components of balloon safety. Besides obstruction avoidance, launch site selection is also based on the forecasted weather (more specifically wind speed and direction) and air regulations. Each request must be judged appropriate.
Can I bring my camera, binoculars, purse etc.?
For safety reasons, equipment must be worn with strap around neck, under arm or belted at waist to prevent injury or interference with Pilot, other passengers and persons on the ground. Serious injury or death may occur if an article falls or is thrown from the balloon basket!
The Pilot reserves the right to refuse equipment or carry-ons. You will need both hands free for launch and landing. Air Display is not responsible for personal effects. It is illegal to drop items from an aircraft.
Can I bring my friends?
Air Display, would prefer you did not bring friends with you. If you must, please do not bring more than one extra vehicle with you. They must not drive onto the launch or landing sites. They must park on the road and walk to the balloon. If they intend to follow the balloon you must notify us on arrival at the rendez-vous site. You will be given additional instructions then.