About Hot Air Balloon Rides

Where can I locate a ride operator near me?
If you're interested in taking a balloon ride in Indiana, you'll be glad to hear that there are FAA certified commercial balloon pilots in many areas of the state.  The optimum ride season typically runs from May through November.  Booking with a local commercially rated operator allows you the opportunity to talk directly with the pilots or crew chiefs who will be handling your flight, as opposed to using nationwide "booking agents" who may not be able to give you detailed information about a pilot's experience, location, or flying area.

View our list of commercially rated pilots that are also MSI club members.
This information is provided as a public service.

What kind of weather do balloons fly in?
Ideally, balloon pilots look for high pressure, with no chance for thunderstorms and no frontal activity.  Balloons fly just after sunrise and just before sunset, when winds are the lightest.  Ideal wind speeds are between 3 and 8 MPH.  Balloons can fly in higher winds, but, inflating and landing become more challenging.  It's also important that there is no threat of convective activity within the area. Indiana pilots get most of their flights in during the summer and fall, when weather patterns are more stable. However, it's possible to get some beautiful flights in during winter months as well!

How much does a ride cost?
Prices for rides vary from city to city and state to state, but a typical one hour flight is usually in the $150 to $200.00 range. 

How should I prepare for my flight?
If you're scheduled for a balloon ride, remember to dress acoordingly. Long pants and walking shoes will provide protection from any rough corners or long grass you may encounter, and a hat may be helpful for passengers who are tall enough to be close to the burner's heat. The temperature in a balloon is almost the same as on the ground, getting only 3 degrees cooler for each thousand feet of altitude. Since you travel with the wind, you won't feel much of a breeze while you are airborn.

Remember to bring your camera and plenty of film or memory cards. Also bring a camera for any family who will be watching from the ground.