So you're afraid of heights? Don't panic
It's ok to be scared of heights
They even have a name for it, Acrophobia. Only 7.5% of people on the planet have some anxiety about heights. The good news is that it does not effect you when flying in a hot air balloon, with almost everyone finding hot air ballooning peaceful and relaxing.
Even folks who have some apprehension before the flight find themselves quickly giving up their grip on the handles shortly after take off. Why? Well, there is no sensation or movement during flight to upset the fluid in the inner ear.
Here are some common questions from guests that had some anxiety toward heights:
What does it feel like to fly in a hot air balloon?
The balloon ascends very gradually, you will hardly notice that the basket has left the ground. The basket remains still as it floats through the air. There is no rocking or rollin. After launching there is no need to hold on at all just enjoy the view and get your camera out and start taking photos.
What does it feel like when the balloon descends?
Some say it’s like floating on a cloud. It’s almost impossible to notice if your ascending or decending. Hot air balloons typically descend at 100-500 ft per minute, whereas typical commercial airplane flights descend at 700-1500ft per minute. Landings are typically slow & gentle but occasionally we have a faster (15kph+) landing where the basket will slide and come to a stop on its side. Believe me these landing are a lot of fun!
What About the Wind?
Hot air balloons travel with the winds. What you'll notice is the gentleness and silence of the flight (except for the noise of the burner). We also do not fly in fast wind, rain, fog or any bad weather.
Still worried about going up in a balloon?
Our pilots have a 100% safety record with over 35 years and thousands of hours of experience. All our staff are happy to answer any question you may have prior to booking and during flight. If you want to go on a hot air balloon ride but are nervous or afraid, feel free to reach out to us via phone. We are happy to answer your questions and put your mind at ease. Just remember that we have helped thousands of passengers celebrate their anniversaries, birthdays, and cross a hot air balloon ride off their bucket lists. We know you'll have an amazing experience as well. If you are ready to book now, you can select a date by clicking on the online book button here.
