Hot air balloon flights are completely dependent upon good weather conditions. Cancellations are unfortunately a common occurrence. Passenger and crew safety is our foremost concern when trying to accommodate your booking. If your flight is cancelled due to bad weather or safety related issues, you will be able to reschedule your flight for another day. Please review our cancellation and refund policies.

We require light winds, good visibility, and no impending adverse weather. A great deal of the flight planning procedure involves checking the current forecast, speaking with flight services at the airport, and releasing a Piball (a small helium filled balloon) to see firsthand what the winds are doing at various altitudes.

Initially, passengers will meet our flight team at a central meeting location where you will join us for a short drive to one of a variety of launch sites.

The launch sites vary depending on the wind speed and direction. The majority of the flights originate within the city limits and continue to the outskirts where the pilot will choose a road, field or open area to land.

During the flight, our chase vehicle and crew will follow the balloon wherever the winds may take you. Once the balloon has landed, the crew will meet with you, pack up the equipment and provide you with transportation to your vehicle.

The temperature during the flight can be 5-10 degrees warmer in the basket than on the ground. The balloon travels at the same speed as the wind, so there is no wind chill and the radiant heat from the burners adds to the warmth in the basket.

It is a good idea to dress in layers and wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. High heels, sandals and open toed shoes are not recommended as passengers are often required to walk on uneven terrain.

During the winter flights, your feet tend to be the coldest part of your body, so appropriate footwear is a must. Clothing should be the same as for any other outdoor activity in the winter.

Yes. Children under the age of 10 tend to be frightened by the noise of the burners and the heat generated by them. Young children must be tall enough to stand in the basket and see over the side without being held.

Passengers between the ages of 10 and 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, unless a waiver has been signed by their parent or legal guardian.

A woman at any stage of pregnancy may not take part it a hot air balloon experience. We would also recommend that any passenger with a history of knee, hip, ankle or back problems be cautious and consult a doctor prior to booking a flight.

Yes. In Canada you are required to pass a medical examination, as well as a number of written examinations and practical tests like any other type of pilot. Hot air balloon pilots must obtain a commercial pilot rating in order to fly balloons carrying passengers.

Our largest balloon can accommodate a maximum group size of six passengers, not including the pilot. Balloons Aloft also offers private charters.

We require seven days notice for any changes or cancellations. Flights can be rescheduled up to seven days prior to the flight date without penalty. Flights rescheduled or cancelled by passengers less than seven days prior to the flight date will be charged a $25 administration fee.

No deposit required. An administration fee of 25% of the purchase price will be charged when passengers miss a scheduled flight.

Balloons Aloft flight tickets and gift certificates have no expiry dates. Tickets and gift certificates not redeemed within one year of the purchase date are subject to price increases should any occur prior to the redemption of the flight ticket.