Tethered Balloon Rides

  Tethered Flights fly in similar weather conditions as a standard hot air balloon flight. We fly in winds 7-8 mph or less and the best time of day to fly is at sunrise for approximately 2 hours or two to four hours just before and after sunset. This is because the winds should be at their calmest during these times and the thermal activity is not as relevant. 

Tethered flights usually fly between 25 feet and 75 feet above the ground. Most Tethers are performed between 40 and 50 feet AGL. The exact height is determined by a number of factors including wind, terrain, location, anchor points, number of passengers, etc. The pilot will determine the exact height according to conditions at the time of the event.

A hot air balloon tether requires a minimum area of at least a 150’ x 150’ space that is clear of debris, trees, light poles, bushes, and power lines. A 200’ diameter is preferred. We will need three to four points to tie the balloon to the ground. These points should be large/heavy vehicles that are easy to move as needed. 

Anyone of reasonable health and who can get in and out of the basket can participate. Each participant (or parent/guardian for those under 18 years of age) must sign a Hot Air Balloon Agreement – Assumption of Risk, Waiver of Liability, and Indemnification Agreement before being allowed to participate in the event. The pilot & crew always reserves the right to limit who or how many can get into the balloon basket. We cannot fly pregnant women and our baskets are equipped with a door for ease of entry.