The main flying season for scheduled flights is from April to October. Flights are available at weekends both morning and evenings and weekday evenings, plus the occasional midweek mornings. Daily scheduled flights do not operate over the winter months. However, passengers may elect to go on our ‘winter standby’ list to be contacted should we get a spell of suitable flying weather. During the winter months an open dated champagne balloon flight voucher makes an excellent present, that can be used in the coming spring.

What time of day do the flights take place?

Balloon flights are made either early in the morning or in the evening, when the air is at its stillest. Times depend on sunrise and sunset. For example May meeting times are around 6.00am and 6.00pm.

Where do we fly from?

We fly in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset and South Wiltshire. See our Meeting Locations for more detailed information.

How long does it take?

Ballooning is an experience NOT to be rushed. The actual balloon flight takes approximately 1 hour. It is very important that passengers arrive at the meeting point at the correct time. It will sometimes be necessary to transport passengers from the meeting point to an alternative local launch site, owing perhaps to the wind direction. They will always be returned to the original meeting point at the end of the flight. For this reason you should allow at least 4 hours for the complete experience. Passengers are advised not to book a restaurant following an evening flight, as the return time cannot be guaranteed. Longer duration flights may be arranged on an ‘exclusive’ basis.

What do I wear?

No special clothing is required. Sensible outdoor clothes and footwear suitable for wearing in the countryside at the time of year will be fine. Remember the grass may be damp, and you may encounter the odd cowpat. No sandals or high heels please. A hat may be useful to protect your head from the heat. Ladies wear trousers please.

Can I fly over my house, town or village?

Ballooning is like serendipity, which is the art of making happy and unexpected discoveries by chance. Where the balloon goes is entirely dependent on the wind, no two flights are the same. A balloon cannot be steered and travels with the wind, so it is not possible to guarantee a flight over a particular house, town or village.

Is it a champagne balloon flight?

Yes, a choice of champagne or soft drinks is available, during the flight.

How far will I travel and how high up will I go?

This again is dependent on the wind. You may travel anything from 2 to 25 miles with the average distance covered being about 10 miles. Altitude wise, the flight will normally be between 500 and 3000 feet above ground level.

What happens to friends and followers who are not flying?

They are welcome to watch the balloon inflation and launch. If an alternative launch site to the meeting location is used, they will have to make their own way there and back.

Can I pick a fine day or cancel a flight if the sun isn’t shining?

No. If we consider the weather safe, the flight will take place. Living in the British Isles, it is not possible to guarantee sunshine. Flights will not take place in rain or fog. If you wish to postpone your flight date you must give the minimum period of notice in accordance with our terms and conditions.

You may postpone your flight by speaking to us direct (office hours 9:30am - 5:30pm Monday to Friday):-

Up to 72 hours before the meeting time for the flight which you have booked if your flight has been booked for a day between Tuesday and Saturday inclusive.

Up to 96 hours before the meeting time for the flight which you have booked if your flight has been booked for a Sunday or a Monday; provided that at the time you do so you re-schedule your flight for a mutually convenient date within one month of the postponed flight. An out of office hours answering machine message or e-mail is not acceptable as a method of postponement.

If you do not turn up for your flight you will not be entitled to reschedule your flight nor will you be entitled to any refund. Please see our Terms & Conditions.

What happens if the weather is unsuitable for ballooning?

It must be understood that ballooning is very weather dependent. You will need to telephone our pre-flight weather information line prior to the flight to check the weather. If it is unsuitable, you simply rebook for another convenient day.

Once I buy a voucher, how long in advance do I need to book my flight?

As a general rule you should book your flight three/four weeks in advance. Longer if for a weekend evening or a bank holiday. You can check date availability and reserve your space by calling the Aerosaurus office or visiting our on-line flight availability page.

Can I take a camera?

Yes, and twice as much film as you think you might need but you are responsible for looking after your camera and personal possessions.

How many people will be in the balloon, can I have a balloon to myself?

On a standard flight you will be joining a group of other people. The balloon baskets are divided into compartments for your safety, and there will not be any more than six passengers in any one compartment. You may book just one person, or as many as you wish. Alternatively you may like to book an exclusive flight where you have an entire balloon to yourselves (plus the pilot of course!).

Is it safe?

Yes, we are certified by the Civil Aviation Authority and all our pilots hold full Commercial Pilot Licences. We carry limited insurance cover against risk of injury to passengers during flights in accordance with international agreements covering air transport. Additionally we carry personal effects cover up to a maximum of £1000 per passenger.

Is there an age or weight limit?

There is no upper age limit, but passengers must be sufficiently agile to climb in and out of the basket, which is about 42 inches (1.1 M) high. Children must be at least 7 years old, over 4’ 6” high (1.2 M), and accompanied by an adult. For operational reasons there will be a surcharge for passengers whose weight exceeds 18 stone (114 kg).

Medical Conditions?

We are not qualified to express an opinion that you fit to fly, and you must ensure you are fit to fly. You must not fly if you are suffering from any serious medical condition or have recently undergone surgery, unless you have a certificate of your fitness to fly from your doctor. You must not fly if you are pregnant or under the influence of drink or drugs.

Can I fly with a disability?

There are many differing levels of disabilities, please check with us. Sadly for safety reasons we are unable to fly any person who is confined to a wheelchair.

How do I arrange my flight?

You may book a flight at time of purchase or you may prefer to purchase an open dated voucher. Whichever option you choose, you or the main passenger (if different) will receive a passenger information pack explaining the procedure.