Ballooning FAQ

How long is the flight?

Our flights are approximately one hour in the air. We fly in a mountainous environment and weather conditions can change quickly.  Therefore, our flights may be longer or shorter than stated due to weather, safety concerns and/or availability of landing sites.

How do you steer a balloon?

The only way to steer a balloon is by finding different wind directions at different altitudes. Our pilots are specifically trained for mountain flying and are extremely skilled at navigating the balloon.

How far/high do we fly?

Because ballooning is 100% weather dependent no two flights are identical. Typically our flights take us from the treetops up to several thousand feet and travel approximately 2-10 miles.

Is ballooning safe?

Ballooning is definitely not an amusement park ride and does have inherent danger.  However, it is extremely safe when basic common sense is applied and you only fly in the right weather conditions.  At Tennessee Balloon Rides passenger safety is our #1 priority.  It's simple - if the weather conditions are not safe we will not fly....period.

Is ballooning regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration?

Yes, ballooning is a very well regulated sport. Our pilots are commercially licensed. We are fully insured and all of our equipment is inspected and certified in accordance with FAA guidelines.

What should we wear?
Dress for the season. The temperature will only vary a few degrees.  Appropriate clothing: long pants, tennis or hiking shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses.  Baseball caps are encouraged due to the heat put off by the balloon burners. No shorts, open-toed shoes or sandals please. You will climb in and out of the basket.

Where do the flights take place?

Most of our flights are in the Smoky Mountain area around Sevier county, but we will be glad to work with you anywhere in the East Tennessee area.

What is the meet time in the morning?

The exact meet time varies throughout the season depending on the time of sunrise.  The meet time is typically between 5:30am - 7:00am.  Your actual meet time and place will be given at the time of your reservation.

 

 

How much do your balloon rides cost?

Private Flights are: $250.00 per person with a 2 person minimum A 50% deposit is required on all flights and packages.

How soon should we make a reservation?

It is recommended that you make your reservation three weeks or more in advance.  We also encourage you to book early in your stay in the event that inclement weather creates the need to reschedule your flight.  Last minute reservations are occasionally available but if ballooning is a priority on your itinerary please reserve early to secure your spot.

What is your cancellation policy?

We have a 72 hour cancellation policy.  Any passenger cancellation less than 72 hours before the scheduled flight will be charged in full.  There is no charge for any passenger cancellation more than 72 hours before the scheduled flight.

What happens if our flight is canceled due to inclement weather?

In the event that your flight is canceled due to weather we will try to work with your schedule and ours to reschedule your flight.  If we are unable to complete your flight due to continued bad weather or scheduling conflicts you are not charged anything. The deposit shall be forfeited if the customer cancels the flight, and does not agree to reschedule.

Do you offer private flights for two people?

Yes, most of our flights are for two people at Tennessee Balloon Rides we feel the privacy of sharing the ballooning experence should be with someone you are very close to. Of course if you have more than two that you would like to share your private flight, that's ok with us.

Check in Reguirements
You should check in by calling Tennessee Balloon Rides at (865) 654-3087   72 hours prior to flight time.

By confirming your reservation, you are agreeing to these policies and charges. This policy is applicable to Private Flights, and all Package rates.

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