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Balloon Flights
The beauty and the landforms of the Wilpena Pound area can only be truly appreciated from the air. Add romance and a blend of adventure and tranquility to an aerial viewing of the Flinders by experiencing it from an Outback Balloon.
Participants may choose to be involved in the brief preparation or stand back and take photographs as the balloon is inflated and made ready to gently lift above the countryside
Once in the air, the balloon floats as a perfect viewing platform with no turbulence, vibration or noise - other than the occasional roaring of the burner. Passengers will travel gently across the vast expanse of the Australian Outback, all the while keeping an eye out for the native wildlife and watching the morning light bathe the hills and ramparts.
After returning safely to land and having some fun packing the balloon back into its bag, there will be light refreshments served 'in the bush' accompanied by sparkling Australian wine or fruit juice.
Fly with Outback Ballooning from 18th April 2013. Cost: $370 pp
Tour Duration
Passengers will be with Outback Ballooning for 4 to 5 hours in total. Flight duration is approximately 1 hour depending upon wind direction, speed, suitable landing sites and other flight planning considerations for an aircraft that can only move with the wind. Flight distance will typically be between 10 and 20 kilometres.
Light Breakfast
A light breakfast of individually packaged muesli and other exotic slices, cheese and biscuits and fresh fruit accompanied by Australian sparkling wine and fresh juice will be served 'in the bush' after every flight.
Number of Passengers
The Flinders Ranges balloon carries a maximum of 10 passengers. There will only be one flight each morning.
The feeling 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. In fact, it is often warmer with the burners overhead and the balloon flies above the night-time low level cold air temperature inversion.
Fear of heights is not generally a problem as the basket sides are high and secure and there is no vertical 'face' between the balloon and the ground. The sensation is similar to looking out of an aircraft window but it is much bigger with no glass!
Weather Conditions
Safety is our primary concern and if we are prevented from flying due to unsuitable weather conditions, passengers may either re-book to another day or, receive a full refund. The pilot's decision with regard to safe flying conditions in 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.
What to Wear
It is dusty in the bush. Sensible clothing, preferably not white. Enclosed shoes and a hat are recommended. It is no colder in the balloon than on the ground but it can be chilly before sunrise. A light jacket is recommended in spring and autumn, but in mid-winter very warm clothes may be necessary.
General Health
Physical fitness is not a requirement to enjoy a ballooning adventure but passengers must be able to stand for the duration of the flight (with secure high sides to lean on) as there are no seats in the basket.
Pregnancy must be advised in advance. We do not recommend a woman of 4 months or more to participate in the balloon flight tour. The flight and carriage of any passenger will take place as the pilot's discretion.
Sickness or disease that may affect the person or other persons on the tour must be notified to Outback Ballooning in advance. Medication should be brought on tour.
Any form of disablement must be discussed with Outback Ballooning Pty Ltd prior to making a booking. Each person is considered on an individual basis.
Cancellations
Passengers who:
- Cancel their ballooning tour within 24 hours of departure will not be given a refund.
- "No show" on the morning of the tour will not be given a refund.
- Who suffer "cold feet" on the launch field will not be given a refund.
No fee is charged for cancellations more than 24 hours before the flight.
