There Aren’t Many Aircraft That Are Challenged By A Lack Of Wind, But Hot Air Balloons Have Special Needs

Hot-air balloon flying has got to be one of the most pure examples of recreational or sport aviation because it truly represents the history of flying. Remember, some of the earliest reports of balloon flying in the United States were filed by none other than Benjamin Franklin.

However, hot air balloon flying does offer its challenges. In the early days of balloon flying a fire was simply lit under the balloon to heat up the envelope and then it was just turned loose. Where it came down and its final circumstances were always a question, and part of the ballooning adventure. Modern hot air balloons carry propane powered burners to adjust the heat while flying. By judicious use of the burners, the balloon pilot does have some control over where the balloon ends up by adjusting altitude to find the appropriate winds.

Within the last week we have heard of two cases where things didn't go exactly as planned, but no harm was done. While it’s hard to relate to a forced landing in a hot air balloon, it does happen.

We saw one report of a hot air balloon that ran out of propane fuel and had to make a forced landing. Much like an airplane or helicopter, making a forced landing means you have to find the right place and you may not have much time to do it. This report from Oregon said that a hot air balloon pilot had to make a forced landing in the parking lot of a woman’s prison. Needless to say, prison officials were a bit concerned for the potential of an escape plot. No harm was done but the prisoners were sequestered while this whole thing was sorted out.

Another forced landing occurred near Tulsa, Oklahoma when a balloon pilot had to land his craft in the middle of a neighborhood. The problem turned out to be what can only be called an anomaly in atmospheric conditions that is seldom seen in the state of Oklahoma. That anomaly was, there was no wind. The balloon pilot was unable to reach his destination and elected to land in a cul-de-sac that offered enough room and clearance for the safe touchdown. It’s reported that neighbors were surprised and children were delighted.

The lack of wind in Oklahoma is still a mystery.

(Image from file.)

FMI: www.bfa.net