Balloon flight FAQ's
To make the most of your hot air balloon flight why not read these FAQ's!
How long is the flight voucher valid for?
Flight vouchers are valid for 24 months, open dated and fully transferable.
Is there an age limit?
There is no upper age limit on flying but passengers need to be agile enough to climb in and out of the basket and tall enough (1.3m, 4'6'') to see over the rim. Passenger's aged 7 - 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Unfortunately it is not possible to fly anyone suffering from a serious medical condition, or who has recently undergone surgery or who is pregnant.
What else is included with the flight?
All Airtopia passengers are served a glass of champagne or orange juice after the flight and are able to download an in-flight photograph of themselves and their fellow passengers free from the Airtopia Ballooning's website. They can also order a personalised flight certificate, incorporating an in-flight photograph for an additional charge.
Can I fly any time of the year?
Nearly all Airtopia flights take place between the end of March and the beginning of November. However, if the weather permits the occasional flight can be arranged during the winter months.
How long in advance do I need to book my flight?
It depends on the time of year that you want to fly. July and August are Airtopia Ballooning's busiest months and it is recommended that 2 to 3 weeks notice is given.
What about insurance?
Airtopia Ballooning is insured for third party and passenger liability. We are licensed and regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority under Air Operators Certificate number BL190. All our pilots hold full commercial pilots licenses and have many years experience of flying balloons in the South West region.
How many passengers will be in the balloon?
Airtopia Ballooning believes that size matters. Therefore, unlike most other companies who fly very large balloons with between ten and twenty passengers, we prefer to fly balloons with no more than eight passengers on board.
What clothing should I wear?
Airtopia Ballooning recommend that you wear long trousers and tops with long sleeves made from natural fibres and suitable foot wear such as flat shoes or walking boots. If you are tall or thin on top we recommend that you wear a hat to avoid the heat from the burner.
Can I take a camera on the flight?
Your balloon flight is a great photographic opportunity. So, bring your camera or video camera along. We don't however accept any responsibility for any loss or damage to personal items howsoever caused.
Can my friends come and watch?
Family and friends are welcome to watch the balloon being prepared for flight and the take-off.
How long is the flight?
The duration of the flight is planned to be approximately 1 hour. However, if for any reason, a flight should last for less than 40 minutes we will arrange another flight at a later date free of charge.
What time is the flight and when do we meet?
For morning flights we meet just after sunrise and for late afternoon/early evening flights we meet 2 and 1/2 hours before sunset.
How high up do we go?
Flights generally take place up to approximately 3,000 feet above the ground. However when the conditions are suitable we can climb up to approximately 6,000 feet to enjoy exceptional panoramic views of the area.
How far do we travel?
The distance we travel can be between 4 and 20 miles depending on the speed of the wind on the day of the flight.
Is the landing very bumpy?
Yes there will be a bump upon landing and depending on the wind speed the balloon may drag across the landing field until it comes to a halt.
What happens if the flight is cancelled?
To rearrange your flight if it has had to be cancelled simply call Airtopia Ballooning's office on 0845 2262717.