Quick Details
WHAT IS A TETHERED BALLOON RIDE? A tethered balloon ride is when the balloon is tied to the ground with three very strong ropes to keep the balloon from flying away. This allows us to lift and “fly” a large group of people of all ages at a specific location.
WHEN CAN WE TETHER?
We can do a tethered event year-round, weather permitting. We inflate only when the winds are around 8 mph or less. When the winds are any faster the balloon becomes difficult to control and can be quite unsafe. There cannot be any thunderstorm type activity within 50 miles of the tether location. The pilot will make all final weather determinations.
WHAT TIME OF DAY?
Just like a standard hot air balloon flight, the best time of day to fly is within 2 hours of sunrise or two hours of sunset. This is because winds should be at their calmest during these times. This is the same for tethered rides.
HOW MUCH TIME IS NEEDED FOR A TETHER?
The average event is approximately 2-3 hours long. The minimum tether time is 2 hours. The maximum tether time is 4 hours. This time frame is limited by time of day, fuel capacity, and weather conditions. We do our best to do a complete the contracted time but will shorten the event if conditions require.
HOW HIGH WILL WE FLY?
Tethered flights usually fly between 25 feet and 75 feet. The exact height is determined by a number of factors including wind, terrain, location, anchor points, number of passengers, etc. The pilot will determine the exact height according to conditions at the time of the event.
HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN RIDE IN THE BALLOON?
Two to four persons at a time can ride at a time depending on their combined weight. During a normal tethered balloon ride event each balloon should be able to lift between 50 and 75 persons an hour.
WHO CAN FLY?
Anyone of reasonable health and who can get in and out of the basket can participate. Each participant (or parent/guardian for those under 18 years of age) must sign a Hot Air Balloon Agreement – Assumption of Risk, Waiver of Liability, and Indemnification Agreement provided by 605 Balloon Ride LLC before being allowed to participate in the event. The pilot & crew always reserves the right to limit who or how many can get into the balloon basket. We cannot fly pregnant women and our basket is not handicap accessible.
WHERE CAN WE TETHER?
A hot air balloon tether requires a minimum area of at least a 150’ x 150’ space that is clear of debris, trees, light poles, bushes, and power lines. A 200’ diameter is preferred. We will need three points to tie the balloon to the ground. These points should be large/heavy vehicles that are easy to move as needed. We always bring one large vehicle with us. In some instances, we will bring two. Please plan to provide two SUV or Truck type vehicles to secure the balloon to with keys so they can be moved at any time.
