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Experience the magic of the outback from above!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will I see Ayers Rock/Uluru from the balloon?
No, Ayers Rock/Uluru is approximately 450 kms from Alice Springs.
I am staying at Ayers Rock/Uluru, can you pick me up from there?
No, you will need to stay the night before in Alice Springs.
I am staying in a rural location or free camping near Alice Springs, where can I meet the bus?
We will ask you to meet us at the front of reception at the Crowne Plaza Lasseters, 93 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs, NT 0870.
This hotel reception is 24-hour and well lit with plenty of parking. We will confirm this with you the day prior to your flight.
Some examples of places we cannot pick up from: Squeaky Windmill B&B, Ooraminna Homestead, Discovery Parks Glen Helen, Ellery Creek Campground, Temple Bar Caravan Park, Waangaardi Caravan Park and any Air B&B property south of the MacDonnell Ranges.
How long will the balloon flight be?
The balloon flight duration will depend on the weather conditions on the morning and our pilots will land if conditions do not allow them to continue flying safely.
You will be with us for approximately 4 hours depending upon where we land.
Flight distance will typically be between 10 and 20 kilometres. The balloon flight takes place approximately 15 kilometres to the south of Alice Springs adjacent to the MacDonnell Ranges and over the historic Owen Springs Cattle Station.
Will I be picked up by the bus if I am staying at a private address or an Air B&B property??
Most private addresses and Air B&B properties are outside of our scheduled pick up zone.
We will do our best to pick you up if our schedule allows however you may be required to meet us at one of our pickup locations closest to where you are staying.
Our office will discuss this with you the day prior to your balloon flight.
How many people will be in the balloon basket?
Outback Ballooning has a large fleet of balloons suitable for 2-4 people, up to 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 people in one balloon depending on number of bookings on the day.
Do I have to help pack up the balloon?
The packing up tasks at the end of the flight are optional and we would appreciate your assistance in these enjoyable activities. However, they do involve some lifting and participation is entirely voluntary. Passengers that are less able bodied are invited to stand back and take photos. Persons with medical conditions participating in the balloon flight and pack up activities do so at their own risk.
Will our group be in the same basket?
Yes, unless you are part of a large tour group, then you may be asked to split in to 2 groups depending on how many people are booked on the day. If you are travelling with someone that has a separate booking to you, let us know so we can link your booking to make sure you are allocated to the same balloon.
Can we book the night before?
Yes, however we cannot always guarantee availability, so we suggest booking well in advance.
How high does the balloon go?
We operate within the first 1000ft above the ground level. The weather will determine how high we fly on the morning.
Are the balloon flights at sunrise? Will I see the sunrise?
Hot Air Balloon flights in Australia are at first light because this is the time of day that provides the optimum weather conditions for launching balloons.
Depending on many operational factors, which vary each day, passengers may be on the ground or in the balloon when the sun is actually coming over the horizon or rising, either way they will still see an amazing dawn.
What will I see?
The balloon flight takes place approximately 15 kilometres to the south of Alice Springs adjacent to the MacDonnell Ranges and over the historic Owen Springs Cattle Station. You will see views of our amazing desert landscape and the ranges as far as the eye can see, early morning skies like nowhere else and if you are lucky, kangaroos, birds, wild camels and other wildlife that have been woken by the sounds of the burner. Flight distance will typically be between 10 and 20 kilometres.
Please note that we do not fly over the MacDonnell Ranges.
If there are kangaroos on the ground will the pilot be able to get closer?
As the balloon is not “steered” in the conventional sense, it will depend on the height of the balloon at the time of the sighting. The balloon moves with the direction of the wind so if you are high then the pilot is not able to just make the balloon fly low in an instant. The winds tend to stratify in differing directions and altitudes which is how the pilot uses these varying currents to guide the balloon to an appropriate landing site.
What do we wear?
It is dusty in the Outback. Outdoor clothing (preferably not white if you want it to stay that way), long pants and hat or cap are recommended. Enclosed flat heel shoes are essential. It is no colder in the balloon than on the ground but it can be cooler before sunrise. Warm clothing may be necessary from approximately May to September. Loose items such as dangling jewellery and scarves are not permitted once passengers reach the launch site and dis-embark from the bus.
What can I bring?
You can bring a camera or phone to take photos. However, as there is limited space in the basket, backpacks and larger items will not be permitted on the flight. You will be required to leave these on the bus with the crew during the flight.
Do I get a refund if you cancel my flight?
If we cancel due to weather and you do not have another available morning to fly, yes you will receive a refund if you have booked through a third party. We will advise your agent that the flight has been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions and you will need to contact them directly. Payment for bookings made directly with us are not taken until the morning of your flight. Your credit card has been taken to secure the booking and will only be charged as per our cancellation policy.
I’m afraid of heights, I don’t know if I want to fly?
Ballooning is one of the most natural and safest feelings you will ever experience. It is very different to looking over the edge of a tall building or a cliff. In fact, you don’t have to look down, you can just look out towards the horizon in awe of our amazing views in the middle of nowhere while you float gently in the breeze.
Our baskets are approximately 1.2 metres high and very sturdy. You will not even notice when the balloon has taken off from the ground, it is very peaceful and calm. Once in the air, you do not feel like you are moving.
If you decide on the launch site that you can’t go, we will not force you, you are able to stay on the ground with our crew and chase the balloon through the desert and meet up with everyone once the balloon lands. Unfortunately, because of our location, we are not able to take you back to town until the end of the tour.
Is ballooning safe?
Absolutely! Statistically, flight is the safest mode of transportation and ballooning is statistically, the safest form of flight. Safety is our primary concern and our pilots will cancel if there are unsuitable weather conditions. The pilot’s decision with regard to flying conditions is final.
You may then either re-book for another day or receive a full refund if you have prepaid through a third party.
Where possible, the balloon flight should always be booked for the first available day in the area to allow for re-booking in case of bad weather.
Will I experience motion sickness?
Ballooning is one of the smoothest and most gentle ways to fly. Early in the morning at sunrise there are no bumpy air pockets around and everything is very stable. The only bumps you should ever feel in a balloon are those few bumps sometimes felt on landing whilst the balloon comes to rest.
Will I be cold during the flight?
It is no colder in the balloon than it is on the ground, in fact it can be warmer once in the air with the burners. Because the balloon moves with the wind there is little or no wind chill experienced during flight.
How loud are the burners?
The burners can be quite loud, our crew does have earplugs available for those who have sensitive hearing.
I fly out the same day, will I have enough time to join a balloon flight?
As our balloon flights take place early morning, there is generally enough time once you have returned to your hotel to check out and make your way to the airport. The airport is only a 15-20 minute drive with little traffic. We are also able to offer airport drops as our flights take place out near the airport. Enquire at time of booking.
Should pregnant ladies go ballooning?
Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules and regulations and Outback Ballooning’s policy prevent us from flying women who are over 12 weeks pregnant. Pregnancy must be advised in advance.
Any there any restrictions if I have recently had an operation or have a medical condition??
Illness and/or recent operations that may affect the safety of the person or other persons on the tour must be notified to Outback Ballooning in advance. Medication should be brought on the tour.
Any form of disablement must be discussed with Outback Ballooning prior to making a booking. Each person is considered on an individual basis.
Persons with medical conditions participating in the balloon flight and pack up activities do so at their own risk.
The flight and carriage of any passenger will take place at the pilot’s discretion.
Is there a weight limit?
Whilst there are no weight restrictions as such, passengers must be able to climb up and into the basket that is approximately 1.2 metres in height unaided using the basket foot holes which act like a ladder. You will need to be able to swing your legs over and hop in to a small compartment that is approximately 60 cm wide. Compartments will accommodate from 2-6 people side by side depending on the size of the basket and the number of people booked for that day. We do require the weight of every passenger when booking and anyone over 110kg will receive an additional safety requirements email from our office.
What is the minimum age a child can fly in a hot air balloon?
Minimum age recommended is 6 years old. We can take 3-5 year old children but we do not recommend as they generally cannot see over the side of basket (1.2 metres high) and cannot be lifted up although they can look through foot holes. Also, the noise of the burners or the fire itself can scare them (recommend earplugs).
However, you know your children and if after reading this you would still like to take your 3-5 year old with you then we are happy to take them as well. Child prices will apply.
What time does ballooning get back?
We recommend that you allow up to 4 hours from pick-up time for our tour. Pick up times are approximately 1 hour before first light so vary throughout the year. As an example, in the middle of summer pickup times are around 4.15am and in the middle of winter around 5.45am. You will be advised the exact time when you book.
About the flight
Will I see Ayers Rock/Uluru from the balloon?
No, Ayers Rock/Uluru is approximately 450 kms from Alice Springs.
How long will the balloon flight be?
You will be with us for approximately 4 hours depending upon where we land.
Flight distance will typically be between 10 and 20 kilometres. The balloon flight takes place approximately 15 kilometres to the south of Alice Springs adjacent to the MacDonnell Ranges and over the historic Owen Springs Cattle Station.
How many people will be in the balloon basket?
Outback Ballooning has a large fleet of balloons suitable for 2-4 people, up to 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 people in one balloon depending on number of bookings on the day.
Will our group be in the same basket?
Yes, unless you are part of a large tour group, then you may be asked to split in to 2 groups depending on how many people are booked on the day. If you are travelling with someone that has a separate booking to you, let us know so we can link your booking to make sure you are allocated to the same balloon.
Do I have to help pack up the balloon?
The packing up tasks at the end of the flight are optional and we would appreciate your assistance in these enjoyable activities. However, they do involve some lifting and participation is entirely voluntary. Passengers that are less able bodied are invited to stand back and take photos. Persons with medical conditions participating in the balloon flight and pack up activities do so at their own risk.
How high does the balloon go?
We operate within the first 1000ft above the ground level. The weather will determine how high we fly on the morning.
Are the balloon flights at sunrise? Will I see the sunrise?
Hot Air Balloon flights in Australia are at first light because this is the time of day that provides the optimum weather conditions for launching balloons.
Depending on many operational factors, which vary each day, passengers may be on the ground or in the balloon when the sun is actually coming over the horizon or rising, either way they will still see an amazing dawn.
What will I see?
The balloon flight takes place approximately 15 kilometres to the south of Alice Springs adjacent to the MacDonnell Ranges and over the historic Owen Springs Cattle Station. You will see views of our amazing desert landscape and the ranges as far as the eye can see, early morning skies like nowhere else and if you are lucky, kangaroos, birds, wild camels and other wildlife that have been woken by the sounds of the burner. Flight distance will typically be between 10 and 20 kilometres.
Please note that we do not fly over the MacDonnell Ranges.
If there are kangaroos on the ground will the pilot be able to get closer?
As the balloon is not “steered” in the conventional sense, it will depend on the height of the balloon at the time of the sighting. The balloon moves with the direction of the wind so if you are high then the pilot is not able to just make the balloon fly low in an instant. The winds tend to stratify in differing directions and altitudes which is how the pilot uses these varying currents to guide the balloon to an appropriate landing site.
What do we wear?
It is dusty in the Outback. Outdoor clothing (preferably not white if you want it to stay that way), long pants and hat or cap are recommended. Enclosed flat heel shoes are essential. It is no colder in the balloon than on the ground but it can be cooler before sunrise. Warm clothing may be necessary from approximately May to September. Loose items such as dangling jewellery and scarves are not permitted once passengers reach the launch site and dis-embark from the bus.
What can I bring?
You can bring a camera or phone to take photos. However, as there is limited space in the basket, backpacks and larger items will not be permitted on the flight. You will be required to leave these on the bus with the crew during the flight.
Will I be cold during the flight?
It is no colder in the balloon than it is on the ground, in fact it can be warmer once in the air with the burners. Because the balloon moves with the wind there is little or no wind chill experienced during flight.
What is the feeling of being in a balloon?
There is no turbulence or vibration as the balloon moves with the wind. With eyes closed it is impossible to tell that you are flying. It is no colder in the air than on the ground. It is a fact it is often warmer with the burners overhead and the balloon flies above the night time low level cold air temperature inversion.
Are refreshments included?
Yes. After landing, Outback Ballooning has designed its program to allow you a unique opportunity to experience the Australian bush. Most of our landings are in the desert kilometres away from the nearest road. There is no traffic, no other people and no noise. The perfect place to enjoy a glass of sparkling Australian wine or fruit juice accompanied by a small selection of individually wrapped snacks before re-boarding the bus to return to “town”. Please note dietary requirements are on request only.
I’m afraid of heights, I don’t know if I want to fly?
Ballooning is one of the most natural and safest feelings you will ever experience. It is very different to looking over the edge of a tall building or a cliff. In fact, you don’t have to look down, you can just look out towards the horizon in awe of our amazing views in the middle of nowhere while you float gently in the breeze.
Our baskets are approximately 1.2 metres high and very sturdy. You will not even notice when the balloon has taken off from the ground, it is very peaceful and calm. Once in the air, you do not feel like you are moving.
If you decide on the launch site that you can’t go, we will not force you, you are able to stay on the ground with our crew and chase the balloon through the desert and meet up with everyone once the balloon lands. Unfortunately, because of our location, we are not able to take you back to town until the end of the tour.
Bookings & Cancellations
What is the pre-flight online check-in waiver?
You will be required to complete an online check-in waiver 5 days prior to your balloon flight. For this reason, we require your mobile number and email address so you can receive your pickup time reconfirmation text and online check-in waiver email containing the link and instructions.
Should you not have one of these, other options are available so you will need to phone us on 1800 809 790 or 8952 8723 or email sales@outbackballooning.com.au by no later than the day prior.
It is extremely important to be able to locate you if the weather is not suitable for ballooning or in the event that you sleep in.
Mobile telephone numbers must be left on the night before your flight.
Can we book the night before?
Yes, however we cannot always guarantee availability, so we suggest booking well in advance.
Do I get a refund if you cancel my flight?
If we cancel due to weather and you do not have another available morning to fly, yes you will receive a refund if you have paid in full. If you have booked through a third party, we will advise them that the flight has been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions and you will need to contact them directly.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
If you cancel within 24 hours of departure, do not show up on the morning of the tour or suffer “cold feet” on the launch field you will not be given a refund or your credit card will be charged if you have not paid.
Please note: If you book through a third party, (ie travel agent or tour desk) Outback Ballooning recommends that you check their cancellation policy carefully as a third party cancellation policy may differ.
Outback Ballooning recommends that passengers purchase their own travel insurance, as this can provide cover for things like cancellations, delays, medical expenses, and personal belongings.
Do you provide insurance cover for your flights?
Outback Ballooning recommends that passengers purchase their own travel insurance, as this can provide cover for cancellations, travel delays, medical expenses, or personal belongings. Outback Ballooning operates under all mandatory aviation requirements in Australia, so you can fly with confidence knowing that all regulatory standards are met.
Any there any restrictions if I have recently had an operation or have a medical condition??
Illness and/or recent operations that may affect the safety of the person or other persons on the tour must be notified to Outback Ballooning in advance. Medication should be brought on the tour.
Any form of disablement must be discussed with Outback Ballooning prior to making a booking. Each person is considered on an individual basis.
Persons with medical conditions participating in the balloon flight and pack up activities do so at their own risk.
The flight and carriage of any passenger will take place at the pilot’s discretion.
What is the minimum age a child can fly in a hot air balloon?
Minimum age recommended is 6 years old. We can take 3-5 year old children but we do not recommend as they generally cannot see over the side of basket (1.2 metres high) and cannot be lifted up although they can look through foot holes. Also, the noise of the burners or the fire itself can scare them (recommend earplugs).
However, you know your children and if after reading this you would still like to take your 3-5 year old with you then we are happy to take them as well. Child prices will apply.
Can I book a Hot Air Balloon Chase on its own?
Unfortunately not. Hot Air Balloon Chases must be booked in conjunction with at least 1 adult balloon flight. Children must be accompanied by an adult on the balloon chase. Request basis only as limited space available on each tour.
Logistics
Are return transfers to and from the launch site included?
Yes.
Alice Springs Complimentary transfers to and from your accommodation included with every flight. Private addresses and rural properties may not be included in our pickup schedule. If this occurs, we will advise you of the best meeting location.
Meeting times vary throughout the year but are about one hour before first light. The exact time will be confirmed when you book.
I am staying at Ayers Rock/Uluru, can you pick me up from there?
No, you will need to stay the night before in Alice Springs.
I am staying in a rural location or free camping near Alice Springs, where can I meet the bus?
We will ask you to meet us at the front of reception at the Crowne Plaza Lasseters, 93 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs, NT 0870.
This hotel reception is 24-hour and well lit with plenty of parking. We will confirm this with you the day prior to your flight.
Some examples of places we cannot pick up from: Squeaky Windmill B&B, Ooraminna Homestead, Discovery Parks Glen Helen, Ellery Creek Campground, Temple Bar Caravan Park, Waangaardi Caravan Park and any Air B&B property south of the MacDonnell Ranges.
Will I be picked up by the bus if I am staying at a private address or an Air B&B property??
Most private addresses and Air B&B properties are outside of our scheduled pick up zone.
We will do our best to pick you up if our schedule allows however you may be required to meet us at one of our pickup locations closest to where you are staying.
Our office will discuss this with you the day prior to your balloon flight.
I fly out the same day, will I have enough time to join a balloon flight?
As our balloon flights take place early morning, there is generally enough time once you have returned to your hotel to check out and make your way to the airport. The airport is only a 15-20 minute drive with little traffic. We are also able to offer airport drops as our flights take place out near the airport. Enquire at time of booking.
What time does ballooning get back?
We recommend that you allow up to 4 hours from pick-up time for our tour. Pick up times are approximately 1 hour before first light so vary throughout the year. As an example, in the middle of summer pickup times are around 4.15am and in the middle of winter around 5.45am. You will be advised the exact time when you book.
Health & Safety
Is ballooning safe?
Absolutely! Statistically, flight is the safest mode of transportation and ballooning is statistically, the safest form of flight. Safety is our primary concern and our pilots will cancel if there are unsuitable weather conditions. The pilot’s decision with regard to flying conditions is final.
You may then either re-book for another day or receive a full refund if you have prepaid through a third party.
Where possible, the balloon flight should always be booked for the first available day in the area to allow for re-booking in case of bad weather.
What happens if there is bad weather?
Safety is our primary concern and if you are prevented from flying due to unsuitable weather conditions you may either rebook to another day or receive a full refund. The pilot’s decision with regard to safe flying conditions is final.
Where possible, the balloon flight should always be booked for the first available day in the area to allow for re-booking in case of bad weather.
I’m afraid of heights, I don’t know if I want to fly?
Ballooning is one of the most natural and safest feelings you will ever experience. It is very different to looking over the edge of a tall building or a cliff. In fact, you don’t have to look down, you can just look out towards the horizon in awe of our amazing views in the middle of nowhere while you float gently in the breeze.
Our baskets are approximately 1.2 metres high and very sturdy. You will not even notice when the balloon has taken off from the ground, it is very peaceful and calm. Once in the air, you do not feel like you are moving.
If you decide on the launch site that you can’t go, we will not force you, you are able to stay on the ground with our crew and chase the balloon through the desert and meet up with everyone once the balloon lands. Unfortunately, because of our location, we are not able to take you back to town until the end of the tour.
Will I experience motion sickness?
Ballooning is one of the smoothest and most gentle ways to fly. Early in the morning at sunrise there are no bumpy air pockets around and everything is very stable. The only bumps you should ever feel in a balloon are those few bumps sometimes felt on landing whilst the balloon comes to rest.
How loud are the burners?
The burners can be quite loud, our crew does have earplugs available for those who have sensitive hearing.
Should pregnant ladies go ballooning?
Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules and regulations and Outback Ballooning’s policy prevent us from flying women who are over 12 weeks pregnant. Pregnancy must be advised in advance.
Any there any restrictions if I have recently had an operation or have a medical condition??
Illness and/or recent operations that may affect the safety of the person or other persons on the tour must be notified to Outback Ballooning in advance. Medication should be brought on the tour.
Any form of disablement must be discussed with Outback Ballooning prior to making a booking. Each person is considered on an individual basis.
Persons with medical conditions participating in the balloon flight and pack up activities do so at their own risk.
The flight and carriage of any passenger will take place at the pilot’s discretion.
Are there any physical requirements?
Physical fitness is not a requirement to enjoy a ballooning adventure, but passengers must be able to climb up and into the basket (approx. 1.2 metres in height). There are foot holes, which act like a ladder. Everyone must stand upright for the duration of the flight, as there are no seats in the basket, but there are secure high sides to lean on.