Hot Air Expeditions in Phoenix, Arizona, United States | Ballooning

Welcome to Hot Air Expeditions in Phoenix, Southwestern, United States. Ballooning is an exhilarating experience for everyone, from the neophyte adventurer to the seasoned veteran, from the young to the more mature. "A magic carpet ride" and "riding on a cloud" are two phrases that have been used to describe the beauty, exhilaration and gentleness of Ballooning. Even though you travel at speeds of five to six miles per hour, there is virtually no sensation of motion because you are flying with the wind. Should you light a candle aloft, the flame would remain motionless, there is no breeze since you match its speed exactly.
Your adventure with Hot Air Expeditions of Phoenix, Southwestern, begins upon arrival at our Sonoran desert launch site. You will receive a "pre-flight briefing" where you'll learn more about the hot-air balloon and how it flies, plus other facts you should know to make your flight as enjoyable as possible.
All flights begin with the inflation of the balloon by motorized fans. Once the envelope is filled with air, the propane burners are ignited to heat the air inside. In about thirty minutes we are ready for flight. Once your balloon is inflated, you will join your pilot in the beautiful hand-created wicker basket. The luxurious, over-sized basket has plenty of room to allow everyone to enjoy the ride to the fullest.
As you gently leave the Earth, you'll be amazed at how light the balloon feels. During the flight you have an unobstructed 360-degree view to take excellent photographs.
The pilots often decide to rise higher in order to give you a marvelous overview of the valley. By changing altitude the pilots may also be able to change direction by finding a shift in wind currents at another level.
You will be amazed at the excitement and curiosity generated by the passage of our balloons. Occasionally, cars will follow us over the narrow dirt roads in the desert to rendezvous with us after landing.