The first ballooning tour took place in France on September 19, 1783. Granted, the passengers consisted of a very confused sheep, duck, and a rooster, and the trip only lasted a few minutes, but the mission was a successful one. A few hundred years and several thousand prototypes later, the modern hot air balloon remains an extraordinary method of aviation transport that delights thrill-seekers and conservative travelers, alike.
Safe Balloon Tours
Despite the near nonexistent fatality rate associated with ballooning tours, many people tend to be frightened by the idea. Such trepidation is understandable. After all, it does seem rather perilous to fly hundreds of feet above ground in nothing more than a wicker basket supported by a large balloon. Interestingly enough however, hot air balloons are very safe when operated properly.
If you are interested in taking a hot air balloon tour, it is absolutely imperative that you choose a charter company that employs experienced pilots. While piloting an air balloon might appear technically simple, it is actually a very complicated skill mastered only by training and experience. A good hot air balloon pilot should exercise good common sense as well as technical expertise.
References are a terrific resource for which to ask when looking for a quality company to facilitate your balloon tour. If you don't know anyone personally who can offer a recommendation, you might want to call some premier hotels in the area you are visiting and ask the concierge. Interestingly enough, concierge staff members are usually extremely knowledgeable when it comes to safe hot air balloon travel.
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