During our many years of operating hot air balloon flights we have been asked most questions. To try and assist with some of these questions we have compiled a list of those most frequently asked. Should you have a specific question not answered below please feel free to contact us on: 01785 280450 or contact via e-mail.
Q What is a Balloons UK Presentation Gift Voucher?
This includes: A Presentation Gift/Flight Voucher. A balloon flight of approximately 1 hour (you need to allow between 3 and 4 hours from meeting time to finish). After the flight. each passenger will receive a commemorative Flight certificate signed by the pilot and take part in a Champagne celebration. Click here for prices.
Q Can I give a Balloon Flight as a Gift?
Absolutely! Our Hot Air Balloon Flight / Gift Vouchers make an ideal gift for a relative or friend for Birthdays, Christmas, Anniversaries, and Retirement Etc. You can just purchase an “Open Dated” gift voucher which is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. The recipient then telephones our booking office Quoting the booking reference number and books the flight at any time during the main flying season which is March to October.
Q How do I book a Gift Voucher?
Gift vouchers can be purchased in one of the following ways: by calling at the Visitor Centre at Trentham, online by clicking on this link, by telephoning our Central Booking office on 01785 280450 or printing off the e-booking form and posting with payment to Balloons UK. (Address on contact us button at top of page)
Q Is there an age limit?
The lower age limit is 8 years old and 4ft 6 inches in height so that they can see over the side of the basket, any passengers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. We have no upper age limit our oldest passenger is 94 years young! However ballooning is an outdoor sport requiring a degree of agility. If passengers have any health problems, they are advised to contact both their doctor & our office to discuss the possibilities of flying.
Q Do balloons fly all year?
Our main flying season is March to October however; if the weather remains favourable during the winter months it may be possible to have a winter flight, you would need to contact our booking office for information on winter flying. Remember you can purchase an “open dated ” Gift / Flight Voucher any time of the year and it will be valid for a full 12 months.
Q Do Balloons fly in any weather conditions?
No. Ballooning requires light winds, no rain and good visibility to provide you with a safe and enjoyable flight. Passengers are requested to call our “flight information” line before their flight (this number is on the back of the gift voucher). This is continually updated with information specially provided for us by the Met Office. Should your flight need to be cancelled because of unsuitable conditions, it will be rescheduled for a mutually convenient date.
Q What time do balloon flights take place?
Balloon flights take place early morning & evening when the weather is at its calmest & there is no thermal activity. Times vary throughout the year, as general guide balloons fly about 1 ½ hour after sunrise and two hours before sunset. When you call our booking office to book your flight date you will be given the approximate flight times. During the main flying season which is March to October our balloons fly 7 days a week, mornings & evenings (weather dependant)
Q Can I purchase a voucher for just 1 passenger?
Yes, although we fly between 6 and 8 passengers in the basket you can purchase any number of vouchers from 1 to 8. If your booking is for 1 person we will fill the flight with our existing passengers.
Q How long is the flight?
The flight lasts for approximately 1 hour but you should allow 3 to 4 hours from the time we meet you on site to the time we get you back to the launch site after landing.
Q Where do we fly from?
Our flights take place from ‘Trentham’ you will be informed of the exact take off point when you book your flight date. It may be possible to fly from your own launch site providing the site is suitable and you have a group booking normally of 8 people. Should this be of interest to you please telephone our office for advice.
Q What should I wear?
For your safety and comfort we suggest outdoor clothing suitable for the time of year. Long trousers and long sleeves, preferably in natural fibres, are recommended. Owing to the British climate, take off and landing sites may be wet from dew etc, therefore suitable footwear is advised. High or pointed heels must not be worn. Bring a hat if you are tall or thinning on top; this will protect you from the heat of the burner.
Q Can I bring a camera?
Yes many passengers wish to record this experience of a lifetime. You are welcome to carry cameras in flight at your own risk. Bring lots of film you would be surprised at how many people run out half way through the flight!
Q Can I Bring friends & family to see me off?
Friends & family who are not flying but would like to watch are most welcome, entry to the launch site is free and instruction and information will be given to all passengers and spectators prior to the flight.
Q Where do we land?
Every balloon flight is different and is dependant on the speed & direction of the wind, your pilot will select a suitable landing site on the day. Permission of the landowner is always required before gaining access on to the land.
Q How do we get back?
We have a retrieve vehicle following your flight and in radio contact with the balloon, once the balloon has landed the crew from the vehicle will gain the necessary permission to drive on to the landing site, pack the balloon away and drive you back to the launch site.
Should you need any further clarification or advice please do not hesitate in contacting us on 01785 280450.