Friday, October 2, 2015

Important Facts About Balloon Flights In Colorado

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By Della Monroe


Ballooning refers to the act of flying hot air balloons. There are certain things that make the activity attractive such as the exceptional quietness, the lack of feeling of motion and the scenery. The vessel moves into the direction of the wind thus making the passenger not to feel the any wind except when it is descending and ascending into different air currents. Balloon flights in Colorado are therefore a very interesting recreational activity that many should try.

A lot of people opt to purchase these flights from companies that already offer balloon rides because piloting requires the availability of equipment as well as licensing which is a lot of effort. These rides are mostly common in areas that receive tourists but are enjoyed in various parts across the world.

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.

Thermals are vertical air currents that result from the heating the ground which make the process of piloting difficult; they can be avoided by flying at the right time. In extreme cases these currents can affect the ability an aircraft to climb thus bringing about a forced landing. Before any flight begins, is the duty of a pilot to check the weather and identify the best take-off point.

This point of take-off must be spacious enough to allow for the lay out and inflation of the envelope as well as be clear of obstructions such as trees, power lines and buildings. The weather must have good visibility and the winds should be slow to facilitate take off. The point should also be located such that the winds will move it to the direction of the expected landing site.

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 direction of these flights is mostly determined by the wind and the altitude can be manipulated by making changes to the temperature of the air inside the envelope. A number of balloonists prefer to be followed by a vehicle to the point of landing which will facilitate their return to the launching point. Communication between the two is mainly done through shouting and radio.




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