Beautiful yet dangerous: what risks can occur during a hot air balloon flight

By TravelWiseFeb 1, 2024 08:02 AMNews
Share:
Beautiful yet dangerous: what risks can occur during a hot air balloon flight
What you should know about hot air balloon rides. Source: Photo: Pixabay

Hot air ballooning is a popular pastime and an excellent way to explore more during a tour. There are dedicated hubs providing this service, such as in Jordan, Turkey, and the United States.

While enjoying the unique perspective of the scenery from the air, there is always the possibility of something going wrong. The BBC investigated the safety of hot air balloon tours and what tourists should be aware of before flying.

How safe is hot air ballooning?

According to the National Transportation Safety Board's 2022 report, there have been 775 balloon accidents in the United States since 1964, resulting in 70 fatalities. However, a 2013 study indicated that between 2000 and 2011, incidents increased due to relaxed regulations on commercial balloon flights, possibly due to the growing popularity of such flights. In response, the United States took action and implemented a new accreditation program.

Beautiful yet dangerous: what risks can occur during a hot air balloon flight
Several colored balloons flying above the ground in Cappadocia, Turkey. Source: Photo: Freepik

The Envelope of Safety program mandates that balloon pilots must hold a commercial certificate for a minimum of 18 months to carry more than 4-6 passengers and be recertified every 2 years. Additionally, balloon pilots are obligated to possess medical certificates and undergo drug and alcohol testing.

In 2024, the independent marketing platform Gitnux published a report stating that fewer than 30 deaths were recorded during balloon flights between 2008 and 2022. While it is acknowledged that no flight can have zero risk, this data suggests that ballooning can be relatively safe for tourists.

What should you know to prepare for the flight?

Balloons undergo more frequent checks than pilots and have three levels of accreditation: silver, gold, and platinum. It's important to note that operators are not obligated to participate in this program. Therefore, when selecting a tour, it is advisable to inquire about these details in advance. Additionally, be aware that the air can be much colder, so dressing warmly and comfortably is recommended. Pay attention to any restrictions imposed by the company, including age and health restrictions.

Top Articles
Los Angeles skyline at sunset with colorful skies

L.A.'s 15 Best Fine-Dining Restaurants for Special Occasions

Nov 23, 2024 02:30 AM
Road with palm trees at sunset in Southern California

Best Hot Springs Near Los Angeles to Visit Right Now

Nov 22, 2024 01:30 AM

Top Things to Do in San Francisco Today | Explore the City

Nov 20, 2024 23:18 PM

Discover the Best Bars in San Francisco: Top Places to Grab a Drink

Nov 19, 2024 22:04 PM
More News
a lifeguard tower on a beach at sunset

Exploring South Korea Beyond Seoul: A Journey Through Diverse Cities

Nov 23, 2024 08:41 AM
Snow-covered railway tracks illuminated by red signal lights under a cloudy evening sky

Rail Travel Alert in Northern England Due to Storm Bert

Nov 23, 2024 07:37 AM

Exploring Indigenous Tourism in the United States: Authentic Cultural Journeys

Nov 23, 2024 06:36 AM

Storm Bert to Bring Disruptive Weather Across the UK

Nov 23, 2024 05:41 AM
Battersea Power Station, Circus Road West, London, UK

Battersea Power Station: A Historic Landmark Reimagined with Panoramic Views

Nov 23, 2024 04:35 AM
Atatürk Havalimanı, Yeşilköy, Bakırköy/İstanbul, Turkey

Turkish Airlines Set to Launch Its Longest Route to Sydney

Nov 23, 2024 02:32 AM
Newark International Airport Street, Newark, NJ, USA

Star Alliance Unveils Its First Lounge in Asia at Guangzhou Airport

Nov 23, 2024 00:30 AM
Aerial view of vibrant turquoise ocean waters with patches of coral reefs under a partly cloudy sky

Coastal Tourism Faces Climate Challenges

Nov 22, 2024 22:30 PM
Interior of a luxury train dining car with ornate blue and gold furnishings and elegant tables

Britannic Explorer: Revolutionizing Luxury Train Journeys

Nov 22, 2024 20:39 PM

Managing Health Concerns Before Traveling

Nov 22, 2024 18:38 PM

Ryanair Adds Omio as Booking Platform

Nov 22, 2024 16:37 PM
An American Airlines plane landing under a cloudy sky

American Airlines Expands 2025 Travel Horizons

Nov 22, 2024 14:36 PM
Crowds gather on a snowy hill during a winter festival in Helsinki, surrounded by trees and an observatory in the background

Helsinki’s Winter Charm Beckons Travelers

Nov 22, 2024 12:35 PM
A skier in a green jacket overlooking snowy mountain peaks under a clear blue sky

Surge in Ski Vacation Rentals Highlights Need for Early Planning

Nov 22, 2024 10:34 AM
Emirates plane in flight against a cloudy sky

Emirates Expands Flights Between Dubai, Seychelles, and Madagascar

Nov 22, 2024 08:33 AM

Bangkok-Rome Flights Enhance Travel Connectivity

Nov 22, 2024 06:32 AM

Urban Sketching in Florence and Venice: Where Travel Meets Artistic Expression

Nov 22, 2024 04:32 AM
A pug leaping on the beach near the water

Unique sea and land vacations for pets are becoming a trend

Nov 22, 2024 02:31 AM
Finnair airplane parked at a Japanese airport gate

Finnair to Reopen Nagoya Route, Offering Distinctive Cultural Experiences for Travelers

Nov 22, 2024 00:38 AM
A soldier in a traditional red uniform holds a ceremonial sword during a British royal event

Exploring UK’s Royal Traditions: What Travelers Can Expect in Twenty Twenty-Five

Nov 21, 2024 22:37 PM
Person holding a smartphone with a silver watch on wrist

Digital and Human Solutions Aim to Transform U.S. Travel Experiences

Nov 21, 2024 20:36 PM
TAP Air Portugal aircraft landing on a runway at dusk

TAP Unveils Black FLYday Deals for Affordable 2025 Travel

Nov 21, 2024 18:35 PM

Frontier Airlines Expands U.S. and Caribbean Routes for Twenty Twenty-Five

Nov 21, 2024 16:34 PM

ABTA’s ‘Travel with Confidence’ Campaign Fuels Future Travel Inspiration

Nov 21, 2024 14:33 PM
Vietjet airplane on a runway at sunrise, featuring eco-friendly promotional design

Vietjet Launches Green Friday: Affordable and Eco-Friendly Travel Options

Nov 21, 2024 12:32 PM
Japan Airlines aircraft approaching landing under a cloudy sky

Japan Airlines Introduces Limited Shochu Service for Business Class Travelers

Nov 21, 2024 10:31 AM