Hot air balloon flights close to Pennsylvania    

Pennsylvania Balloon rides

Balloon flights are plentiful in Pennsylvania, and your family can savor this spectacular and photogenic activity while the weather is favorable. Even though many outdoor enthusiasts have never seen a lighter than air craft, those who have taken off in one remember this wonderous experience for years to come!

Once airborne, balloons just float with the wind. It is true that the pilot doesn't know where the balloon will land ahead of time, but that doesn't mean he can't control the flight. Before the balloon is launched, the pilot knows which way the wind is blowing so he knows which way the balloon will go. The air is in layers, and the different layers may be moving in different directions. So even though the pilot can't steer the balloon, he can move up and down to find a layer of air that will allow the balloon to change direction. Some days the amount of change is very small; other days the balloon may be able to actually turn around and fly in the opposite direction.

Balloon flights can be had by anyone. Most flights last as much as an hour, but check with your pilot to find out what they offer. They might have several trips to buy from.

Do you need a license to fly a balloon?

Yes.
A Balloon Pilot Certificate is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration in the USA. You must pass an FAA written exam, obtain a prescribed number of hours of instruction, make a solo flight, a flight to a specific altitude and pass a flight test.

A pilot offering balloon rides (flying passengers for hire) must receive additional training and have more experience than a private pilot. You don't have to be able to fly an airplane since it is a completely different type of aircraft, although many balloon pilots also fly other types of aircraft like airplanes and helicopters.

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