FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW LONG IS THE FLIGHT?
Flight time varies upon location, wind speed, and direction. However, we do aim for forty-five minutes to one hour.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I ALLOW FOR THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE?
You should allow 2 to 3 hours for the entire experience, which includes checking in for the flight, instructions and inflation, the flight, the post-flight champagne toast, and driving back to the launch site.
HOW SHOULD I DRESS FOR THE FLIGHT?
Please dress for an outdoor adventure. If you dress to the ground climate, you should be comfortable in the air as well! Wear comfortable, loose-fitting, and layered clothing, as the temperature will fluctuate between the launch and landing. Comfortable closed-toed flat shoes are a must, and we do not recommend dresses, sandals, and high heels.
WHAT TIME DOES THE BALLOON LAUNCH?
Flight times vary throughout the year based upon sunrise and sunset times. For sunrise flights, we meet half an hour before sunrise. For evening flights we meet two and a half hours before sunset.
WHERE WILL THE BALLOON LAND?
Because the balloon is not equipped with a steering wheel, your pilot is not able to "steer" the aircraft to land back at the launch site. Depending on wind speed and direction, the balloon will land approximately five to ten miles (as the crow flies) from the launch site. Your pilot will choose the best possible landing spot; typically a large field or backyard.
HOW WILL I GET BACK TO MY VEHICLE?
The Galena On The Fly chase crew will follow the balloon throughout the duration of your flight and will be at the landing site when you arrive. As soon as the flight is over, the passengers will board the van and head back to Eagle Ridge for the first flight ceremony. The chase crew stays behind to load the balloon on the truck and trailer.
DO YOU HAVE A WEATHER CANCELLATION POLICY?
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Because we turn people away based on reservations, we do not have a cancellation period. What does that mean? It means, if Galena On The Fly cancels because of weather, there is no charge to you, and we will make every effort to reschedule your flight. However, if you cancel, for whatever reason, you will be charged the full amount.
ARE THERE PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FLYING IN THE BALLOON?
HOW MANY PEOPLE DOES THE BASKET HOLD?
Our balloons comfortably accommodate up to fourteen people plus the pilot. We welcome even larger groups upon request, please call us for details!
HOW DO I GET IN AND OUT OF THE BALLOON?
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A TYPICAL FLIGHT?
The beginning of the flight is spent at treetop level, allowing you to get a feel for the balloon. The sensation will be much like you’re floating and other than the sound of the burner, is very quiet.
WHAT IS THE TEMPERATURE IN THE BALLOON?
Due to the burners, the temperature in the balloon is a few degrees warmer than the surrounding air. We do not reach altitudes at which there is a noticeable temperature change.
WILL THERE BE ANYTHING TO EAT OR DRINK?
After landing, we provide a celebratory champagne toast and post-flight chocolates. We recommend bringing along a bottle of water for the flight.
SHOULD WE TIP OUR PILOT AND CHASE CREW?
Like all service providers, a gratuity is always appreciated. A typical tip would be 10-20% of the total price. Like the saying goes: If you like the ride, tip your guide.
HOW DO I MAKE A RESERVATION?
HOW MUCH IS THE FLIGHT AND HOW CAN I PAY?
All flights are $200 per person. From 6 to 106, every spot in the basket is the same price.
WILL I BE FLYING WITH OTHER PEOPLE?
THE MORE THE MERRIER!
DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE FLIGHTS?
Yes. If you would like a private flight for two, the price is $2,800.00. Please call our office at 815-777-2747 to arrange this flight.
WHEN DO YOU FLY?
We offer flights sunrise and sunset flights on weekends through May, and seven days a week from April through October. Weekdays we offer sunset flights, while weekends we offer both sunrise and sunset. Each flight is roughly 45 minutes to an hour long.
DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS OR PACKAGES?
No. We do not offer packages or group, senior, or military discounts. We also do not offer Groupon coupons.
CAN I BUY A GIFT CERTIFICATE?
Although we do not offer gift certificates, you can still give the gift of flight! We suggest purchasing a pre-paid debit card (MC, Visa, or Discover) in the amount of the flight. These cards can be purchased at your local retail store. Please visit our Gift Certificate page for more info, or to print off a giftable certificate for your pre-paid gift card.