Safety is absolutely our first priority. We have a 100% safety record. Our highly qualified pilots possess FAA Commercial licenses and experience. We are members of the Balloon Federation of America and we welcome any questions regarding safety or any other aspect of ballooning.

Usually just after sunrise and 1-2 hours before sunset. These times provide winds that are the most calm and stable.

We generally fly from treetop to 1,000 feet. Floating at 1,000 feet, guests usually view several counties and many cities. While flying at treetop-level, deer and other wildlife are often spotted in the woodland areas. The world record for altitude in a hot air balloon is 64,997 feet.

The balloon goes where the wind takes it, however, winds at varying altitudes may blow in different directions and at different speeds. The trick is to climb or descend to an altitude where the wind is blowing in the direction you want to go.

Normally, the balloon carries enough fuel to remain aloft for about 2 hours. Factors like outside air temperature, weight being carried in the basket and weather determine the duration of the flight.

The chase crew drives a vehicle and follows the flight of the balloon, trying to stay parallel or ahead of the balloon. The crew attempts to be on hand at landing to make the recovery when the balloon touches down.

There is technically a 3.5 degree Fahrenheit temperature (colder) change per 1000 feet, but usually there is a small temperature inversion, therefore if passengers are dressed comfortably for the temperature at ground level they will be comfortable during the flight. Passengers usually dress casually and layer clothing if the weather is chilly. We suggest that passengers wear hats, sun glasses, and sneakers or hiking boots. Opened toed shoes are discouraged.

All Pilots are FAA certified, with a Commercial Rating for Lighter-Than-Air with airborne heater.

The decision to fly is made by the Pilot-in-Command. Generally, we will not launch with surface winds in excess of nine miles per hour. We will not fly in any unstable weather conditions.

If the weather does not cooperate, we will postpone the flight and reschedule at the passengers’ alternative time previously provided, based on aircraft availability.

Each flight lasts approximately one hour, however, please allow about three hours for pre-flight briefing, inflation, flight, landing, pack-up & return to the launch site.

The typical sport balloons range in size from 65,000 to 105,000 cubic feet in volume and stand about 70 feet tall, or between six and eight stories tall in approximately 15-20 minutes. Passengers and onlookers are thrilled with the spectacle of the balloon's inflation.

Our balloons carry up to 3-4 passengers, depending on weight, plus a FAA certified pilot.

The balloon is an open air basket. Everyone has a full view.

The chase crew is in radio contact with the pilot at all times and follows the balloon while you are in flight. The chase crew is well briefed, and both the balloon and chase vehicle are equipped with GPS.

Yes, however, the chase vehicles make sudden stops and turnarounds. Those individuals choosing to follow chase vehicles do so on their own accord, and will be asked to remain at least 100 ft behind all chase vehicles at all times. Further, “followers” assume all responsibility for any risk, damage, or injury resulted from the chase.

We meet approximately one hour before sunrise, and 2 ½ to 3 hours before sunset. Meeting times, along with the weather, are always confirmed the day before and the day of the flight. Arriving on time is very important, late arrival may jeopardize your flight.

The business was conceived in 2006, and is a start-up operation. Pilots and staff of Bella Balloons LLC are highly educated, honest, ethical, successful people who live in the community. Pilots range in experience, from several years to over 25 years with instructor ratings.

We are extremely concerned with your safety and satisfaction. The survival of our small business rests on your referrals and return visits.

Passengers are welcome to bring cameras on the flight, however, we do not accept responsibility for personal belongings.

The envelope, or balloon, is made of a reinforced fabric called rip-stop nylon (some balloons are made of dacron). The material is very light weight and strong. The fabric is coated to prevent leaks. The baskets are made from rattan and each one is individually woven by hand.

First the envelope is stretched out on the ground and attached to the basket, which is lying on its side. A small gasoline-powered fan blows air into the balloon. Then the burner is turned on, and the air in the balloon is heated. The hot air rises, lifting the balloon upright. Since a balloon is awkward on the ground, especially in gusty winds, it takes 2-3 people to get the balloon inflated. Of course, the more people, the more fun!!

Since the balloon has no forward propulsion system, its speed is determined entirely by the speed of the wind.

Hot Air Balloons use propane, kept in pressurized tanks in the basket. The tanks are connected to burners with aircraft certified flexible hoses. When the burner valves are opened, the propane is ignited by a pilot light in the burner. The flame may shoot out as much as ten or twenty feet, making a loud "whoosh". Generally, balloons carry 30-40 gallons of liquid propane.

We suggest long pants year round, sturdy, comfortable shoes, and layered clothing on top. Hats are very important in the summer months due to the radiant heat from the burners during takeoff. We advise as to seasonal dress when reservations are made.

Reservations are required. Click here to submit a reservation request.