Thursday, September 24, 2015

Experiencing Balloon Flights In Colorado

By Della Monroe


The activity of flying or cruising in a balloon is called ballooning. The three main things that make it more popular are the quietness of the flight, the beautiful view and the lack of feeling of movement. The latter can be attributed to the fact that the aircraft moves into the direction of the wind and the passenger can only feel movements when entering different currents. Balloon flights in Colorado are definitely a must try out activity for everyone.

A good number of people usually prefer to get ballooning services from companies that are in the business as piloting requires a lot of effort which is the availability of equipment and a license. Most of these rides are often offered in tourist areas but this does not mean that people who do not live in such areas do not get to enjoy them.

For those who are afraid of heights, they can enjoy watching them close up during balloon festivals and this can be a good idea of a family outing. These festivals also include other activities such as entertainment and amusement rides. These vessels can fly up to very high altitudes with the highest flight reaching 21,290 meters which is a world record.

It is common for unpressured aircraft to have oxygen supply to its passengers and the balloon is no exception especially if it is going to exceed an altitude of 3,180 meters. A majority of these launches take place during the cooler hours of the day which can be at dawn or dusk. At these times, the winds are lighter facilitating for easier launching and flying.

Another hindrance to piloting is the air currents known as thermals that are brought about by heating of the ground and they can be controlled by ensuring the right time of launching is adhered to. In some instances this phenomenon can force down a balloon by affecting its climb ability. Prior to a flight, the pilot should confirm that the weather is suitable and locate a take-off point.

The balloon should first be unpacked from its bag and fully spread out on the ground for a connection between the burner and the basket to it to be made. Cold air is pumped into the envelope using a fan for it to have its basic shape before the air inside can be heated up. A rope is usually tied to the apex of the balloon and held to avoid unwanted launching.

The set up involves unpacking the balloon from its bag, spreading it out on the ground and making a connection of the basket and burner to it. A fan is usually used to blow in cold air into it to achieve its basic shape before the burner is used to heat the air. One member of this crew holds a rope that is connected to the apex of this balloon to prevent it from swaying and launching prematurely.

The pilot should select a location that has minimal hindrances like buildings, trees and power lines which is large enough to allow for laying out and inflation of the envelope. The weather should be suitable and facilitate good visibility with the winds being very soft for a successful take-off. This point must be selected such that the winds will direct the balloon towards the landing destination.




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