Please read all the information on this page for nearly everything to expect about your Airbus Balloon Rides experience. Contact us with any other questions that are not included here and we'll be glad to provide an answer!
Passenger Check-In
Please call to check in for morning flights during the day prior to the next morning's flight. Please call to check in for afternoon flights on the morning of that day's flight. 812-825-2214.
Weather for hot air ballooning in Bloomington IN is generally favorable most days out of the year. If the weather will be bad enough to cause cancellation of the balloon flight, we will attempt to contact you as early as possible prior to the meeting time. Otherwise, we expect you to arrive at our meeting location at the specified time.
Be sure to give us a valid cell phone number at the time of booking so we can inform you of any last minute changes or cancellation of your flight.
Meeting & Balloon Launch Times
Our meeting time is 30 minutes before official sunrise for all morning hot air balloon flights in Bloomington IN
Our location of meeting is the Bloomington Airport on South Kirby road on the west side of Bloomington.
When do you fly?
We offer sunrise balloon rides in Bloomington Indiana seven days a week, year round. We offer late afternoon sunset balloon flights in Bloomington Indiana each day during Our hot air balloon rides in Bloomington, Indiana launch twice per day, at sunrise and again about two hours before sunset - weather permitting. These flight times are when the winds are calmest to allow for a most enjoyable flight. During the middle of the day, it's usually too unstable to fly due to thermals, wind gusts and unstable weather conditions.
As an added bonus, sunrise and sunset are the most breathtaking times of day for hot air balloon photography. The vivid light and rich color of the low sun on the horizon allows for many fantastic photo opportunities with the hot air balloons painting the desert with additional color.
Where and what time will we need to show up?
Our meeting time is 30 minutes before official sunrise for all morning flights, and two-and-a-half hours before official sunset for evening flights. Be sure to arrive on time - late arrivals will be treated as a "no-show" and no refunds will be given. Please make sure to confirm the exact meeting time and location when you check in by phone prior to your
What weather conditions are required?
Balloon flight requires ideal weather conditions, which luckily are present most days out of the average year in Indiana. However, just because it's a beautiful sunny day, understand that it may not necessarily be a perfect day to go flying. The wind speed must be less than 8 to 10 miles per hour, and there must be no thunderstorm activity within 50-100 miles. Balloons don't fly in the rain. Even if has stopped raining recently before flight time, there may be more bad weather on the way.
It is ultimately the pilot-in-command's judgment on whether or not the weather is suitable for flight, and that decision is made solely in the interest of safety. We'd love to fly all the time, but sometimes it's just not going to happen. There's an old and wise saying we use in the ballooning circle - "It's better to be on the ground wishing we were up there, than to be in the air wishing we were down here!"
Weather cancellations can and do occur, so please have patience. Sometimes we just cannot fly on your chosen date. We will reschedule you at a convenient later date as many times as necessary until your flight is completed. If you cannot reschedule after a weather cancellation, there is no obligation to do so. However, gift certificates will not be refunded due to weather cancellations.
How long will the hot air balloon ride be?
Our hot air balloon flights average approximately one hour, although guaranteed time in the air can range from a minimum of 45 minutes to nearly two hours. Duration of flight depends on many variables such as wind and weather conditions, potential landing sites, payload, altitude, temperature and other situational considerations. The ultimate decision on flight length is based on safety and is determined solely by the pilot-in-command.
The whole experience usually takes about three hours from beginning to end, so plan on being with us for at least that long. Come equipped with a sense of adventure, and plan to leave extra time between the conclusion of the flight and any important later engagements.
What is included in the price of a hot air balloon ride?
• Average flight time of one hour in duration (Flight time may range from a minimum of 45 minutes to up to two hours).
• Memories to last a Lifetime!
How much does it cost?
See our pricing section for hot air balloon flight fares. All prices are per passenger.
How can I pay?
To pay for a flight, we accept cash, VISA, Mastercard, debit cards and checks or money orders in advance. On the day of the flight, we accept only cash, VISA, Mastercard and debit cards payments.
Are reservations required?
Yes, reservations are a must. Thankfully, we can usually accommodate last-minute and even in some cases same-day reservations. Call us to reserve your flight at 812-825-2214.
How far in advance do I need to reserve a flight?
Try to schedule as early as possible, and plan your dates well in advance for extra special occasions. Weekends usually tend to fill up first, being the most popular time to fly for most folks.
As a rule of thumb, we recommend booking your preferred flight date at least a week in advance to ensure it will be available. However, last-minute bookings and scheduling changes are always possible - just give us a call to find out if we have immediate availability.
What if I need to make changes to my reservation? Are there any refunds?
We have a generous cancellation policy to protect everyone in case plans happen to change between the time of reservation and the scheduled flight time. Cancellations and changes to your reservations can be made up to 48 hours prior to the scheduled flight time with no consequences (full refund). Cancellations within 72 hours of flight time carry certain penalties.
How long are gift certificates valid for?
Gift certificates are valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. They are non-refundable, but are fully transferable. Be sure to inform us at the time of any changes in gift certificate details. We require the information of the new passenger for scheduling and flight planning purposes.
How many people will fit in a balloon? How many other people will be flying with us?
The hot air balloons in our fleet range in capacity from two to twelve passengers (plus pilot, of course!). The majority of our hot air balloon rides in Indiana are flown with balloons that accommodate a total of two to six Therefore, with us on a standard flight, singles and couples will generally be paired with at least another group or two. Exclusive (private) flights are always available to reserve the basket to your own party of two or more for more personal adventures. However, we've found over the years that the more people in the basket, the more fun everyone will have! We will fly multiple balloons if your party is greater than 10-12 guests.
For occasions such as conventions, trade shows, corporate functions, company outings, team-building adventures, workshops and other special events, we specialize in large group flight excursions. With advance notice, we can easily handle parties of 30 or more in multiple balloons. This offers the atmosphere and excitement of a private hot air balloon festival!
I'd prefer to fly alone or in a smaller group. What options do you offer?
Exclusive flights cost more than a standard flight, but will reserve the basket to your own party of two or more. An exclusive flight is perfect for private occasions such as anniversaries or engagements. Exclusive flights may be unavailable on very short notice or on certain dates. See our pricing section for details.
How long will the whole experience take?
Plan to be with us for approximately three hours or more from the specified meeting time. We will meet at our predetermined location, take the time to get to know all our passengers and introduce our pilots and ground crew members. Groups will be assigned to their pilot and we'll then proceed to the launch field. The preflight briefing will then be given during which the pilot and crew will explain everything and answer any questions. Guests are welcome to assist in the setup and inflation of the hot air balloons if they'd like, or they may simply choose to take in the experience and snap photos from an uninvolved position.
Once the inflation process begins, it will only be a matter of minutes before you will take to the sky in your beautiful balloon! The hot air balloon flight can range anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes, although most of our hot air balloon flights in the Bloomington IN area average just over an hour. When it's time to land, our experienced ground crew will be close at hand to assist with deflating and packing up the hot air balloon for return to the meeting location. After we return, we will give a brief tour of our shop along with info on how we build the balloons is included in your ride.
How high / fast / far will we fly?
Since balloons only travel as fast as the wind is blowing, we won't go much faster than 8 to 10 miles per hour near the ground. If the winds low to the ground is any quicker than that, takeoffs and landings become a bit tricky. In those cases, we may decide not to fly: which is always up to your pilot in command.
On average, our hot air balloon flights last just over an hour, so we will usually cover anywhere from 2 to 10 miles in that time. As to how high we'll be soaring, we can fly anywhere from tree top level to a few thousand feet up! Whenever possible, down low near the ground is arguably the most enjoyable part of any flight. You'll be able to skim low over the open terrain below see beautiful rolling hills deer rabbits fox, bald eagles etc…
Can we fly over my house? Can you steer the balloon?
Probably not, unless it's directly downwind in our flight path! Since they float along with the wind, hot air balloons can't be steered like a car or airplane. However, we can direct a balloon by maneuvering to find subtle changes in wind speed and direction. We have very accurate altitude control by using the burners to heat the air in the balloon, and by climbing and descending, we can use these wind direction changes to adjust our course.
Then how do we get back?
Our chase crew will follow our approximate path on the ground and should arrive before, during, or slightly after our landing. They'll help us pack up the balloon, and we'll return to the meeting location in the balloon chase vehicle, which in our case are comfortable passenger vans.
Are there any age requirements?
We don't recommend children under six years of age, mainly because they'll have to stand still for an hour. Most kids that young will get fidgety and restless after a few minutes of standing in the same place. As well, some youngsters are afraid of the loud noise and heat the burner produces. However, if you're sure your young child will be willing and able to behave well, we'll be glad to have them join us on the balloon flight.
On the other end of the spectrum, there is no such thing as "too old." We have carried dozens of passengers over 90 and even a few over 100 years of age!
We regret that we cannot take up those who are pregnant. If you wait a few years and take your child up when they're old enough to appreciate it, it'll be a much more enjoyable experience for the both of you.
Per FAA regulations, passengers clearly under the influence of drugs or alcohol cannot and will not be flown. Refunds will not be given for those who arrive in a such a state.
I'm totally afraid of heights! Will I have a problem?
We're sure you'll have no worries once you're up there. If you can overcome your initial concern and come equipped with an adventurous spirit, we guarantee you'll be perfectly fine!
What about motion sickness?
Turbulence is unheard of, as we are not fighting the wind like an airplane has to. Since the hot air balloon floats along with the wind, there's no movement once we leave the ground.
While airborne, the basket is perfectly balanced underneath the balloon and there is no rocking or swinging. The entire flight is very stable and smooth, and changes in altitude are gradual and hardly noticeable - not like an elevator. Passengers who suffer from even the most severe cases of motion sickness will not feel any effects from a balloon ride.
Is ballooning safe?
The most dangerous part of the hot air balloon ride is the drive to the launch field! That may sound like a joke, but it's the truth.
Although hot air ballooning is one of the safest forms of aviation, it still has inherent dangers like all other recreational activities. Please be aware of your physical limitations when scheduling a balloon ride, as it is important to understand all the possible risks involved. If in doubt, consult your doctor or physician about the suitability of a balloon ride.
The weather is the most influential factor on any hot air balloon flight, and the winds will determine our landing conditions. Despite all the advances in modern forecasting technology and up-to-the-minute aviation weather resources we have at our command, weather is still ultimately unpredictable in flight. Keeping that in mind, there is always the possibility of an occasional windy, bumpy landing. In this case, the basket may make a firm touchdown, tip over in the direction of travel, and drag along the ground until the balloon deflates and we come to a final stop.
What should I wear?
Fall, winter and early spring mornings in Bloomington IN are usually a little chilly before sunrise (30-50°F), so dressing in layers is recommended.
It's best to wear clothes that you aren't afraid to get dirty, although we certainly won't aim to do that! Appropriate clothing for hot air ballooning is jeans, sneakers/hiking boots, and natural materials rather than synthetic. Passengers may prefer to wear a hat, as the burners generate a fair amount of heat.
Shorts and skirts may not be suitable for some of our landing spots. Hiking boots, sneakers, or comfortable flat shoes is the preferred footwear. Heeled shoes and open-toed footwear (sandals) must be avoided.
Is it colder up in a hot air balloon?
The temperature will feel nearly the same in the balloon as it is on the ground, unless we go very high. The temperature drops a constant 3.5°F per 1000 feet above sea level. Whenever possible, our flights take us higher than 3,000 feet above the ground, so the coldest it may become on an average flight would be about 10-15°F cooler than ground temperature. We'll fly even higher than that if all the passengers prefer to and weather conditions and airspace considerations permit. Bring an extra layer so you'll be warm if we fly very high.
Can I bring a camera?
Absolutely! You are encouraged to bring along a camera, digital camera or small video recorder. You'll be able to capture beautiful pictures aloft to remember your flight by and to show friends your exciting adventure. However, please have a neck or wrist strap, and make sure to bring a padded bag or case to stow your camera in before final landing (not hanging from your neck). We cannot be responsible for personal belongings. Bring twice as much film/memory as you think you'll need, and then some. Many people fill up their memory cards or run out of film in the first few minutes after liftoff!
Can other people come to watch? Can family or friends follow in their vehicles?
Sure! Others are welcome to follow behind our ground crew in their own vehicles. If it is an exclusive flight, we will usually offer friends or family the chance to ride along in the chase vehicle. This allows them to be a part of the action if desired, which is nearly as much fun as flying!
What is the best way to contact you?
Call us Direct! 812-825-2214 we would be happy to assist you in booking the flight of a lifetime!
Policies, Terms & Conditions
General Policies
We offer our hot air balloon flights through two standard booking methods - direct flight reservations or prepaid flight certificates. The price is the same either way arrangements are made, but the flight certificate will allow the recipient(s) the freedom to choose the time and date of their flight. In lieu of a deposit payment, we will accept a valid credit card, which will not be charged until after the flight. Gift certificates are always available and are valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. They are very attractive and make a wonderful gift.
Inclement Weather
Ballooning is a fair-weather activity. Inclement weather conditions may cause flights to be cancelled or rescheduled, so keep that possibility in mind when planning your adventure with us. Please don't be upset if we have to inform you it's not flyable on the day of your flight - we can't control the weather. All flight decisions are made in the best interest of the safety of our guests. We'd love to fly all the time, but sometimes Mother Nature just doesn't cooperate.
Weather cancellations can and do occur, so please have patience. Occasionally, we cannot fly on your chosen date. Weather cancellations can be rescheduled at your convenience. Previously-scheduled flights will have priority (first scheduled, first priority). We will reschedule you as many times as necessary until your flight is completed. If you cannot reschedule after a weather cancellation, a refund of your flight deposit will be allowed. Gift certificates will not be refunded due to weather cancellations. If you have left a credit card on hold for your deposit, it will not be charged.
• Weather conditions that will generally cause cancellation: High winds, rain, thunderstorms within 100 miles, low cloud ceiling or low visibility.
• Weather conditions that are preferred: Winds under 8-10 miles per hour, no precipitation, good visibility.
Medical Concerns
We must be notified beforehand of any possible medical issues which would be cause for concern. Such conditions may include but are not limited to:
• Long-term or debilitating illnesses
• Pregnancy
• Severe Osteoporosis
• Inability to stand for extended periods, reliance on a walker/cane, etc.
• Requirement for oxygen breathing equipment, kidney machines, etc.
• Recent Major Surgeries, Broken Bones, Joint Replacements, etc.
In most cases, we should be able to accommodate the passenger in question; however, we need to know what limitations may be present so we can plan for a safe experience. If in doubt, consult your physician about the suitability of a balloon flight.
Per FAA regulations, passengers clearly under the influence of drugs or alcohol cannot and will not be flown. Refunds will not be given for those who arrive in a such a state.
Assumption of Risk Agreement (Passenger Waiver)
There are inherent dangers in absolutely everything we do each day. You can get hurt doing anything - driving a car, taking a shower, crossing the road, mowing your lawn, climbing a flight of stairs, or riding a bicycle. Ballooning is not a magical exception to this rule. There are always inherent risks present that we do our absolute best to minimize and avoid.
All passengers must read, understand, and sign our Assumption of Risk Agreement. In the case of minors under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the Agreement. Please take the time to view and understand our Assumption of Risk Agreement before you come to fly with us. Both variations are presented here so you can read and comprehend clearly before you show up. Passengers who refuse to sign the Assumption of Risk Agreement will not be flown.
This Agreement does not absolve us from responsibility - it is our absolute duty to minimize risks and ensure the safety of all people in the air and on the ground. We expect to never have the need to use these signed pieces of paper for their intended purpose.
Cancellation Policy & Scheduling Changes
We schedule all flights on a definite basis and do not overbook flights. When you make reservations to fly, we ensure specific space in the balloon for your party. If we are full for a certain flight, we must turn away potential customers. Last-minute changes or cancellations affect our schedule as well as other passengers' plans. Therefore, we have a generous cancellation policy in effect to protect everyone in case plans happen to change.
• Cancellations or reservation changes at least 48 hours prior to the meeting time are permitted. Perhaps plans have changed or there is a scheduling conflict that has come up? That’s perfectly fine - just giving us a little bit of notice and there's no penalty whatsoever.
• Cancellations within the time of your flight to 48 hours out of the meeting time will result in forfeiture of the flight
• Should you fail to show up at the scheduled meeting time, or cancel less than 48 hours in advance of our meeting time, the full flight fare will be due. Failing to show up at all - or arriving late enough to miss the flight - is considered a "no-show."
Notification for cancellations must be made by phone and with an employee. You can not leave a message. Please call 812-825-2214
Gift Certificate Information & Policies
Your gift certificate is your proof of purchase and is to be presented on the day of the flight. Do not lose it! You may keep it afterwards if you'd like.
Gift Certificates are valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. There are no extensions to gift certificates. Each certificate has its own Flight Number and "Valid Through" date which is clearly marked in the bottom corner. The Flight Number is your reference number to use when calling us and is how we keep track of your flight information. Keep it handy when calling to schedule or check in for a flight, and it'll help make the process go very smoothly.
Schedule your flight as soon as possible. Don't wait to schedule your flight until the last 60 days of the valid period. Weather cancellations can and do occur. As stated above, there are no extensions - even due to bad weather - unless there are extremely exceptional circumstances.
Gift Certificates are non-refundable but are fully transferable. However, you should call us at the time of transfer so we may document any changes and make updates in our flight planning.
