FAQs – Answers about Ballooning
Why go ballooning?
Here you will find answers to the most common questions about balloon rides and our Ballonhafen in Bad Griesbach. We have clearly compiled the most important information, data, and details about the process of a balloon ride and booking.
Why is it called "riding" a balloon?
The most important question first. The first balloonists, the Montgolfier brothers, were the inventors of ballooning. As early as 1783, they said that they were drifting into the ‘sea of air’. And just as sailors travel on the sea, we still ‘ride’ balloons in the ‘sea of air’ today.
However, there is also a physical explanation – a hot air balloon is an aerostat; unlike an airplane or helicopter, it moves according to the laws of aerostatics and not aerodynamics. The heated air in the balloon is lighter and has a lower density than the surrounding air, which causes the hot air balloon to ascend. The principle of its operation is based on a theorem by Archimedes (287-212 BC). Even today, physicists say “everything that is lighter than air ‘rides'”. This also applies to zeppelins.
Who can participate in balloon rides?
Anyone can participate; there is no upper age limit. However, you should be in good health. Ballooning can sometimes be compared to a sporting activity. Children should be at least 8 years old.
Where does the balloon ride start?
We regularly launch our hot air balloon rides in Bad Griesbach, Ried im Innkreis, or Braunau (Upper Austria) – other locations are possible upon request. For an Alpine crossing, we launch at the edge of the Alps between Rosenheim and Füssen (depending on wind direction).
When do we launch?
Sunrise and sunset determine the launch times of our balloon rides. The following times are only guidelines; often, the launch time also depends on the weather. Therefore, be sure to check again personally the day before your balloon ride at +49(0)8562-2184. All times are only approximate! We also fly our balloons in the winter months – a very special experience. In addition, we can even launch in the middle of the day. Winter flights are scheduled individually. Please inquire by phone or email.
| Month | Morning Flight | Evening Flight |
| March | 7:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
| April | 7:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| May | 6:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| June | 6:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| July | 6:00 AM | 6:30 PM |
| August | 6:00 AM | 5:30 PM |
| September | 7:00 AM | 4:30 PM |
| October | 8:00 AM | 3:00 PM |
Can a balloon ride be given as a gift voucher?
Yes, all our balloon rides are also available as vouchers. A balloon ride as a gift is a special surprise for birthdays, anniversaries, or other occasions.
What clothing is suitable for a balloon ride?
For a balloon ride, we recommend comfortable clothing appropriate for the season – similar to hiking. It is not colder in the hot air balloon than on the ground, as there is no wind chill.
Sturdy shoes are important, as landings often occur in meadows or uneven terrain. We also recommend long pants.
Where do the balloon rides start?
In Bad Griesbach, we always meet in front of the main entrance of Hotel Maximilian – unless otherwise agreed. All meeting points for other flights are arranged individually.
How long does a balloon ride last?
A hot air balloon ride usually lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. The entire experience – including preparation, setup, flight, and return transport – typically takes 3 to 4 hours.
Our balloon rides usually start in the Bad Griesbach area in Lower Bavaria and take place in suitable weather conditions.
Excluded from this are the Alpine flights in winter, which take more time due to the longer journey. An Alpine crossing takes at least 2 days, with the flight from launch to landing in Italy taking between 3.5 and 4.5 hours.
Where will we land?
Only the wind knows the exact landing spot; a car with a trailer follows us on the ground and brings the equipment and balloonists back.
How do we get back?
After the ride, our support vehicle will bring you back to the starting point.
How much does a balloon ride cost?
You can find our pricing information here.
How can I book?
Please call us at +49(0)8562-2184 to arrange an appointment. You can also send a WhatsApp message to this number. As a professional aviation company, our lead times are short. To be able to react to bad weather, we do not plan more than 14 days in advance.
What is the process of a balloon ride?
At an agreed-upon time, we will pick you up at the meeting point. Then we drive together to the launch site. After instructing the passengers, we set up the balloon together. After “arming the balloon” – as the balloon crew calls it – we launch. And land after approximately 1.5 hours of flight time, depending on weather conditions and landscape.
After landing and deflating the balloon, passengers are elevated to the status of nobility in the traditional balloonist’s baptism with fire and noble baptismal water, and receive a baptismal certificate. In total, you should allow about 4 hours. Rest assured: getting up early is worth it for a balloon ride.
