Portland Rose Hot Air Balloons

Where do we meet?
We meet primarily at Aurora Airport. The meeting time is usually about 30 minutes before sunrise. We will tell you the exact time when you book your flight. Click here for directions.

What if it’s raining, foggy or very windy?
We do fly in Oregon, so the weather can influence our decision to fly. The safety of our passengers is our primary concern, so we ask for your patience and understanding if we are unable to fly because of the weather. It is a good idea to provide us with a contact telephone number when you book your flight, so that we can contact you. We will reschedule your flight to another day of your choosing. If you are a visitor to the area, and are unable to reschedule, you will be issued a full refund.

What if it is cloudy?
We do fly in cloudy conditions, depending on the height of the clouds. It adds to the beauty of the scenery, and often reduces the glare sometimes associated with bright unobstructed sunlight. top

What should I wear?
Even a summer morning can be cool. Dress in layers (suggested) and wear walking shoes, not heels. Once in the air, the propane burners will reflect enough heat to keep you comfortably warm. You might also want to bring a hat - to protect your head from the early morning coolness and later from the heat of the burners. top

How long is the flight?
The flight itself lasts approximately one hour. The whole adventure, including the pre-flight preparations, return transportation and the post-flight champagne brunch, will last between three and four hours in total. top

How do I get back to my car?
Your pilot is in constant radio communication with the chase crew throughout the flight. You’ll probably see them from the balloon. When you land, the chase crew is on-site to assist with the landing, to pack up the balloon, and to take you back to the meeting site. top

Will there be photo opportunities?
More than you can imagine! So ensure you bring plenty of film, or photo-cards for the digital photographers. There’s no shops up in the air, so make sure you have spare batteries. top

Is it safe?
Our hot air balloons are built by some of the finest manufacturers in the world. Safety checks are performed before each flight by the pilot and crew. The balloons are subject to annual safety checks in line with FAA standards. All our pilots are certified by the FAA. top

Cancellation policy
Portland Rose Balloons will telephone our passengers late in the afternoon before the following day’s flight in regard to the weather. Remember, this is Oregon, so in the event of rain, wind or fog we will ask your patience to postpone your flight to another day that fits your schedule. If you are traveling and are unable to do so, we will refund 100% of your booking deposit. If you want to cancel or change your reservation we ask for 48 hours notice. If you fail to arrive at the launch site or do not call us, you will be liable for 50% of the total reservation charges. See also the discount fares policy below. top

Discount fares policy
Discount fares are not refundable if a passenger decides not to fly or is late arriving at the launch site, as these fares are purchased within 48 hours of the flight. They are refundable, should we have to cancel the flight due to inclement weather conditions. top

Legal policy
Portland Rose Balloons (and our insurance company) require a signed release of liability and assumption of risk agreement. This will be provided on the morning of your flight. Children under 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian sign the release of liability. top