What is the flight like?
We will fly between tree top height to a couple thousand feet, depending on wind direction and speed. Because of the burners, the temperature will be a few degrees warmer than the surrounding air. The sensation will be like you’re floating, and it is very quiet other than the sound of the burner. It’s amazing and an experience you’ll never forget.
Because you move with the wind, there isn’t a sense of motion like you have in other vehicles/aircraft. People that are afraid of heights almost never have that feeling flying in a balloon. Your experienced pilot steers the balloon by moving it to different altitudes to get different wind patterns, so the height of the balloon will vary throughout the flight.
Click here to learn more about the flight experience.
Is it safe?
Absolutely! 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 of our experienced pilots are certified by the FAA.
Do you fly all year?
Our flying season lasts from mid March until the end of September. We start our season by flying at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival.
Where & when do we meet?
For the first 6 weeks of our season, mid March until May, we fly from the Wooden Shoe Farm during their hugely popular Tulip Festival.
Once that concludes in May, our balloons take off from Aurora Airport just south of Wilsonville, Oregon.
The meeting time is about 30 minutes before sunrise. We will tell you the exact time when you book your flight. Click here for the “Where We Fly” page with more specific information.
How long is the flight?
The flight itself lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the weather conditions of the morning. The whole adventure, including the pre-flight preparations, return transportation and the post-flight champagne toast will last about 3 hours in total.
Do you offer a group rate?
Yes! For groups of 3 or more, the price is $225 per person, saving $25 each. The discount is automatically applied at checkout.
Should we tip our pilot and chase crew?
Like all service providers, a gratuity is always appreciated. A typical tip would be 10-20% of the total price. Like the saying: If you like the ride, tip your guide. You are able to tip at the checkout process after the flight. You can use cash or add gratuity with your card at checkout.
How does payment work?
We charge a 50% deposit at the time of booking and will do a checkout after the flight to collect the remaining balance. We accept all major credit cards. If you want to pay cash, you will need to pay the deposit via credit card and at checkout can pay in cash (with the deposit being refunded).
In the event of a weather related cancellation, we will refund you for the booking deposit. You can also cancel your flight for any reason more than 72 hours before your flight. Please refer to our cancellation policy for more info.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you want to cancel or change your reservation we ask for 72 hours notice. If you fail to give us 72 hours notice, or fail to arrive at the launch site on the day of your flight, you will be liable for 100% of the total reservation charges.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes. Balloons like all aircraft are subject to weight and balance. The total passenger weight is affected by the ambient temperature and its altitude. In order to comply with FAA restrictions, we have weight limits.
- Please be aware: no individual passenger can weigh over 275 lbs.
- Sunrise flights, the average weight across the entire group needs to be below 240lbs.
Example: 150lbs + 230lbs = 380lbs/2 = average weight across the entire group is 190lbs.
*Our private flight options do not have a weight limit*
Are there any physical requirements to fly?
Due to the insurance we carry, we are unable to fly anyone who is pregnant or who may be pregnant. The minimum age to fly is 5. Children under 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian sign the release of liability. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. While there are no age maximums, there are no seats in the basket, so passengers must be able to stand for the entire flight (about an hour) unassisted. We are sometimes able to offer a stool to sit on during the flight. If you are concerned about physical limitations, we always recommend checking with your doctor before booking your flight. Feel free to reach out with questions.
What should I wear?
Please dress for an outdoor adventure. Wear comfortable loose fitting clothing. Dress in layers with long pants preferably. Bring a hat or sunglasses, the summer morning sunrise in the NW can be bright. Wear comfortable closed-toed sturdy shoes (preferably sneakers). Also, don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to share your pictures with everyone! If you dress to the ground temperature, you should be comfortable in the air as well! Due to our balloon traveling with the wind, you won’t feel much of a wind chill.
How do I get back to my car?
There will be a chase vehicle that follows your balloon for the entire duration of the flight. Once landed, our flight team will drive you back to our original meeting point, where we will do a champagne toast (orange juice also available) to cap off the amazing experience.
Can I fly if I'm pregnant?
Unfortunately, we cannot allow you to fly if you’re pregnant.
What if it's raining, foggy, or too 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. We will reschedule your flight to another day of your choosing. If you are a visitor to the area, and are unable to reschedule, we will refund your reservation deposit.
How many passengers do you fly in the balloons?
Our balloons are certified to carry between 8-12 passengers. Our baskets are compartmentalized to ensure maximum comfort and safety. Our private flight balloons can carry 2-4 passengers.
The date I want is already full. Is there a waiting list?
Yes, we do have a cancellation/waiting list. Click here to fill out the requested info, and we will contact you if a spot opens up.
How do the Tulip Tethers work?
We offer tethered rides at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival every Friday through Sunday (weather permitting). They are a first come first serve experience, a ride is not available to be reserved online. For more information, please visit our Tulip Flights & Tethers page.
How do you steer a hot air balloon?
Piloting a hot air balloon is quite different from steering traditional aircraft, as balloons cannot be controlled in a typical directional manner. Instead, balloonists guide the balloon by adjusting its altitude to catch winds moving in various directions. Mastering this technique to navigate toward a desired location is a true testament to a pilot’s skill and expertise.
How high do the balloons fly?
Typically, flights range from treetop level up to a few thousand feet, depending on wind conditions and airspace regulations.