FAQ's - DO NOT SIT AND WONDER
- What is the difference between making a reservation directly with the balloon operator versus a ticketing agency?
- How do balloons fly?
- Why do balloons fly only in afternoons or early mornings?
- How high do balloons Fly?
- How can balloons steer from one place to another?
- How long does a balloon flight last?
- How do I obtain a ticket?
- What should I wear?
- Can we fly all year long?
- How many people can fly at once?
- Can I take a camera?
- Can an elder person fly in a balloon?
- What provisions can be made for passengers with disabilities?
- What if I am afraid of heights?
- What training do the pilots have?
- What is Sky's the Limits Safety Records?
- What is the cancellation policy?
What is the difference between making a reservation directly with the balloon operator versus a ticketing agency?
IMPORTANT RESERVATION INFORMATION vs. PRE-PAID TICKET
SKY’S THE LIMIT BALLOONING ADVENTURES IS NOT an online web-based Hot Air Balloon Booking Agency with multiple generic websites covering all of California, which will subcontract you to the lowest bidder, who in many cases, does not meet the Standards of Commercial Service.
SKY'S THE LIMIT BALLOONING ADVENTURES IS NOT an online web-based Ponzi Coupon that sells extremely cheap rides over several days, in which you pay in advance for a flight ticket with an operator that has limited available seating, forcing you on a long waiting list for multiple dates. Not everyone gets a ride!
How Do Balloons Fly?
Hot air balloons operate on the basic principles of gravity and heat transfer. The propane burners warm the air inside the balloon envelope to as much as 250*F allowing the pilot to take the balloon up to whatever altitude he or she desires. Gravity pulls us back to earth as the temperature cools down. Of course the pilot can continue heating the air to prolong the flight or to control the rate of descent.
Why do balloons fly only in afternoons or early mornings?
The air is almost always at its most stable point early in the day or late in the afternoon thus giving the passengers longer rides and of course more favorable landing conditions (winds generally under 10 knots).
How high do balloons Fly?
A normally loaded passenger balloon will fly from just above the trees to as high as three or even four thousand feet. The pilot can easily control the altitude.
How can balloons steer from one place to another?
Although a pilot cannot turn a balloon right or left he or she can usually maneuver in various wind currents in several different directions giving a reasonable degree of directional control.
How long does a balloon flight last?
Normal flights for sightseeing are about an hour in length or six miles in distance depending on the particular winds of the day. The entire adventure takes about three hours from meeting time until you are returned to your vehicle.
How do I obtain a ticket?
Your reservation is required call 1-877 40 GO FLY / 1-877-404-6359 or book online to reserve a spot on the balloon on the day you wish to fly. We do have gift tickets available for a gift or use it yourself on a future date.Reservations can be made online, with a major credit card or send a check or money order. Reservations are confirmed upon receipt of 100% payment.
What should I wear?
Ballooning is an outdoor sport activity; wear the type of clothing you would expect to wear on a walk into the great outdoors. Jeans or shorts, no open toed shoes or sandals. Flat-soled shoes are recommended. A light sports coat or jacket would be a good idea for after the flight. Attention women, we recommend not wearing a dress or skirt, it will be a little awkward climbing into and out of the basket. For you tall guys well I really don't know what to tell you other than a good cap will protect you from our 16 million BTU burners.
Can we fly all year long?
Yes, Yes, Yes we can fly 310 days a year due to our usually great weather here in San Diego.
How many people can fly at once?
Our baskets range in size from 2 to 8 passengers. In the larger balloon we have separate compartments that carry 2 passengers each so there is ample room for everyone.
Can I take a camera?
Of course you may bring along a camera! This is a once in a lifetime experience! We wouldn't want you to miss anything. You may bring a video camera also. Do not forget to bring lots of films and extra batteries!
Can an elder person fly in a balloon?
Of course! Our oldest passenger celebrated her 100th birthday going on a balloon ride on February 28, 1999.
What provisions can be made for passengers with disabilities?
We have flown many passengers, some confined to wheelchairs, and we do not charge extra even if it means we must fly with less passengers than normal. Call us and describe the physical challenges and we will do everything possible to accommodate them in our flight.
What if I am afraid of heights?
Unlike standing on a cliff or the edge of a building, the baskets 52" sides and sturdy floor offer you a safe and secure feeling; there is none of that vertigo feeling. There is no motion, swaying, or vibration as the balloon moves with the wind. Persons who might suffer from motion sickness on a boat or in a car will not be bothered while in a balloon.
What training do the pilots have?
In addition to having a commercial pilot license issued be the FAA, most of our pilots are balloon instructors and have over 12 years flight experience. In addition our balloons are impeccably maintained and are inspected regularly to ensure maximum safety for our passengers.
What is Sky's the Limits Safety Records?
Our pilots are FAA certified and have over 12 years of flight experience. No passenger has ever suffered any broken bones or spent the night in the hospital. We have one of the best safety records of any balloon company in the entire United States.
What is the cancellation policy?
We must have 48 hours advance notice if you cannot go on the day you have booked your flight. If you do not give us 48 hours cancellation notice we will process your credit card on the date of booking and we will give you an option to either reschedule for a new date or give you a gift ticket valid for 2 months from your cancelled flight date.
No refunds will be given for no-shows.
