FAQ
What should I expect during a hot air balloon ride?
When preparing for your hot air balloon journey, it’s essential to dress appropriately for comfort and safety. Opt for comfortable closed-toe shoes suitable for a short walk, and consider wearing a ball cap or hat, especially if you have less hair, to protect from the heat of the burners. Long pants are also recommended for your comfort. Rest assured, our friendly and experienced crew will be there to assist you with boarding and disembarking from the basket. They’re also more than happy to help capture your experience with photographs, both before takeoff and after landing – perfect for those celebratory ‘survivor’ photos!
Once you’re up in the air, you can expect a safe, peaceful, and serene flight. The balloon ride will take you from gliding just above the treetops to soaring high enough to get a panoramic view of the valleys below. One of the unique aspects of hot air ballooning is the complete absence of motion, as the balloon moves with the wind. This often helps alleviate any fears of heights, as many of our passengers who were initially apprehensive find themselves quickly at ease and enjoying the experience.
From your vantage point in the sky, you’ll witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You might even get the chance to pluck a leaf from a treetop or spot wildlife below. It’s always a delight to see people waving from the ground, and you’ll be amazed at how sound carries up to the balloon. Typically, flights last between 50 minutes to just over an hour, depending on the availability of landing spots.
Following your landing, we celebrate the traditional way with a champagne toast while our crew takes care of packing up the balloon. I’ll likely share a few stories from my ten years in Africa – which you’re welcome to listen to or, if you prefer, you can join in with the balloon pack-up (though there’s absolutely no expectation to do so). Having moved to Pittsburgh in 2022, I’ve been thoroughly enjoying the down-to-earth and friendly nature of the people here. It’s truly been a sweet spot to land in. After flying for various companies, I’m dedicated to providing the ultimate in customer service and ensuring that your experience is as enjoyable as possible. I’m always open to questions and happy to address any concerns or curiosities you might have. I look forward to sharing my passion for flying with you and making new friends along the way. Here’s to a memorable and satisfying ballooning adventure!
Locations & Cancellation Policy
Our hot air balloon flights take off from Butler Farm Show Airport, conveniently located just a 50-minute drive from downtown Pittsburgh and 30 minutes from Wexford. The meeting times for the flights vary throughout the year, aligning with the changing sunrise times. For more information on the meeting place, you can visit the official page of Butler Farm Show Airport at Butler Farm Show Airport.
Please note, it’s important to be aware of our cancellation policy. If a passenger cancels with less than 48 hours’ notice, we are unable to offer a refund. We pride ourselves on operating with 100% integrity. If the pilot cancels the flight due to unsafe conditions, your safety is our priority, and there will be no charge in such instances. Please be aware that flight certificates are non-refundable.
If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact us between 10 am and 7 pm at 724-810-4321. We’re here to assist you and ensure your ballooning experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Seasons for Flying
Our ballooning season kicks off on April 1st and extends until the end of November, offering a range of seasonal vistas. Each season presents its own charm, with autumn boasting the most vibrant colors. The months of August, September, and October typically feature the calmest winds, making them ideal for flying. As the sunrise time shifts over the course of the season, our meeting times are adjusted accordingly.
Safety is a top priority for us, especially when it comes to managing the balloon’s inflation. Imagine trying to erect a 100-foot tall sail without a mast – that’s essentially what we do with our balloons. Consequently, surface winds exceeding 5 mph in Butler can make it unsafe for inflating the balloon. We want to assure you that there is never a charge for cancellations due to weather conditions, and rest assured, your flight certificates are valid indefinitely, with no expiration date.