How Do They Work?
How do hot air balloons work?
Modern sport balloonists primarily burn propane, a pressurized liquid stored in tanks. The blast valve activates the propane allowing it to flow through the preheating coils in a burner that produces blasts 4 to 8 feet long. These blasts enable large volumes of air to be heated quickly within the balloon’s envelope. With the hot air being lighter than the air around it, the balloon begins to rise. Hot air balloons have no steering wheels, so balloon pilots monitor the lift of the balloon to navigate and steer the balloon. Adjusting the balloon’s altitude allows pilots to take advantage of wind speed and currents at various levels in the atmosphere. Besides the blast valve, pilots have the “parachute vent” at their disposal. This device allows for hot air to be quickly released from the envelope, enabling the balloon to descend.
Hot air balloons are point-to-point modes of transportation, so most balloonists use a chase vehicle. A chase vehicle follows the balloon's path and stays in contact with the pilot via radio. It helps with landing and provides transportation to the balloon and its crew at the end of the flight.
How much does a hot air balloon cost?
Balloon costs can range widely, with a small, two-person balloon averaging $20,000 to commercial balloons “ballooning” up to $100,000. In addition to the cost of the balloon itself, potential hobbyists will also need to consider a pilot license, insurance, regular safety maintenance to conform with FAA safety regulations, and storage.