Frequently Asked Questions

Balloon flying in the Italian AlpsBallooning is not just a summer activity!

We provide you with the oppportunity for your first flight in a hot air balloon. Here are some of the more popular questions.

Can I give a flight as a gift?
Yes, a balloon flight makes a wonderful gift for a relative or friend for birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries etc. You can make the flight a surprise present by giving a voucher, which is valid for 12 months after purchase!
Is there an age limit?
We have no upper age limit but ballooning is an outdoor sport requiring a degree of agility. We recommend that people should be fit enough to climb in and out of the basket and to stand for about an hour. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on the flight and must be able to see over the top of the basket, (approx. 4'6").
Is it safe?
Hot air ballooning in the UK has the best safety record of all adventure air sports. The Oxford Balloon Company operates to strict standards laid down by the Civil Aviation Authority.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If on the day of your flight we have to cancel due to bad weather, we will reschedule you for another mutually convenient date. For a successful flight we require light winds, no rain and good visibility.
What do I wear?
Casual outdoor clothes as if you are going for a walk in the country. Flat shoes or even better, walking boots, long sleeves, trousers preferably of natural fibres, are items we would prefer you to wear for your own comfort and safety.
What time of day do we meet?
During the summer, flights are made either early morning or evening. Times depend on sunrise and sunset and so vary throughout the season. Typically in June we would meet at 6am for morning flights and 6pm for evening flights. It is also possible to fly in the winter if the weather permits, when we would meet in the middle of the day.
Where will we land?
During the flight the balloon will cover from 2 to 20 miles, depending on the strength of the wind on the day. The direction is determined almost entirely by the wind and the pilot controls the heights at which the balloon flies to choose a suitable landing site.
So how do we get back?
Our retrieve vehicle follows by road and picks up passengers and balloon after the landing, to take them back to the launch site.
How can I book?
Print out a booking form and return it to us with your payment. If you need the gift voucher in a hurry, give us a call on 01235 529754 or 07767 691833, and we will try to accommodate your wishes.