How to Become a Hot Air Balloon Pilot: A Journey to the Skies
Have you ever gazed at a hot air balloon drifting gracefully across the sky and wondered what it would be like to pilot one? For many, this dream is closer than they think. Becoming a hot air balloon pilot is an adventure that combines science, skill, and a passion for flying. Whether you’re pursuing ballooning as a hobby or considering it as a career, here’s everything you need to know to get started.
Why Become a Hot Air Balloon Pilot?
The world of hot air ballooning is as unique as the aircraft itself. Unlike other forms of aviation, ballooning is about freedom, adventure, and the sheer joy of floating with the wind. Pilots often describe it as meditative—a way to connect with nature while soaring above breathtaking landscapes.
But it’s not just about the view. Piloting a balloon offers unique opportunities:
- Recreational Flying: Take friends and family on unforgettable adventures.
- Competition: Test your precision skills in thrilling ballooning competitions
- Commercial Operations: Earn a living by flying passengers and sharing the magic of ballooning.
For many aspiring pilots, the journey starts with becoming part of a chase crew—helping launch, track, and retrieve balloons. This hands-on experience is the perfect introduction to the world of ballooning.
The First Step To Becoming A Balloon Pilot: Choose Your Path
The sky is the limit for what you can do with a hot air balloon! You could fly solo, take friends and family on an adventure, or compete in ballooning competitions. Or maybe this is a future career path – making money by flying guests in exchange for payment. What will you choose?
Hot air balloon pilots are certified by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) through one of three license types:
- Student Pilot Certificate:
- The first step for beginners. Allows solo practice under an instructor’s supervision but does not permit carrying passengers.
- Private Pilot Certificate:
- Perfect for recreational flying. You can carry passengers but cannot charge for flights.
- Commercial Pilot Certificate:
- Required for professionals who fly for hire, instruct students, or engage in commercial operations.
Each license builds on the skills and knowledge of the previous level, culminating in the ability to pilot balloons professionally. You can check out the different types here.
Most people get into hot air ballooning because it is a ton of fun, and they love the feeling of flying in a balloon. You also don’t have to become a pilot to get involved in ballooning. You can also become part of a hot air balloon crew. Being part of a hot air balloon crew means you’ll help with the setup and takedown of the balloon and be responsible for chasing it from a vehicle! It’s a ton of fun.
You need to make sure you have the time and money for your hot air balloon pilot’s license. There are multiple ways to do it from any budget. We’ll run through the requirements for getting your lighter than are or LTA pilots license.
Why Most Pilots Own Their Own Hot Air Balloon
Unlike renting an airplane, renting a hot air balloon is rare. Most pilots purchase their own balloon early in their training. Owning your own personal aircraft saves money and ensures access to practice flights whenever needed.
Cost of balloon ownership:
- Cost of Ownership: Used balloons range from $7,500 to $20,000.
- New Balloons: 2-3 passenger hot air balloons are $45,000-$60,000
- Training Costs: Flying in your personal balloon is more affordable, as many commercial pilots are willing to negotiate.
If you own your balloon, commercial pilots might:
- Charge a small fee for each session.
- Trade training for breakfast or coffee.
However, if you rely on the instructor’s balloon, expect to pay $750–$1,000 per flight. This cost accounts for:
- Wear and Tear: Regular use during training can take a toll on equipment.
- Operational Expenses: Fuel, insurance, and maintenance for the instructor’s aircraft.
Investing in your own balloon reduces these expenses and provides a long-term asset for future flights. If you are interested in buying a hot air balloon, we have you covered with our Buy a Hot Air Balloon Guide.
Student Balloon Pilot license: Allows students to learn to fly hot air balloons, get burner time, and solo. You can’t carry other passengers unless there is a commercial pilot onboard with you. You can take friends with you during your training flights!
Private Balloon Pilots license: Can carry passengers, but not for money. Passengers can help spilt some of your costs but you cannot fly in any commercial capacity.
Commercial Balloon Pilots license: Can operate for hire, provide flight instruction, and engage in commercial ballooning activities.
Seattle Ballooning’s Program for Young Pilots
Seattle Ballooning is committed to fostering the next generation of hot air balloon pilots. Through its training program for young people, the organization provides hands-on instruction, mentoring, and access to resources to help aspiring pilots achieve their dreams. This program focuses on making ballooning more accessible by reducing barriers to entry, such as equipment costs and flight access. Participants gain real-world experience as part of chase crews and through one-on-one lessons with experienced pilots. By empowering young aviators, Seattle Ballooning is not just training pilots but building a diverse and inclusive future for the sport. You can watch a segment about our program below.
Understand the Requirements for Your Level of Interest
Balloon Training and Certification Requirements
Student Balloon Pilot Certificate
To start your journey as a balloon pilot, you must meet the following training requirements and criteria:
- Be at least 14 years old.
- Be able to read, write, and understand the English language.
Training involves one-on-one lessons with a certified instructor, focusing on:
- Pre-flight operations.
- Understanding weather conditions, wind directions, and wind speeds.
- Learning to control the balloon during ascent, descent, and landing.
- Preparing for your FAA knowledge test and your pre-solo test
Once you demonstrate competency, you’ll progress to solo flights under supervision. After many solos, you’ll be ready to shed that student license and pass your check ride!
Private Balloon Pilot Certificate
To obtain a private pilot license, you’ll need to have these basic requirements:
- 10 hours of flight training, including:
- Six flights with an instructor.
- One solo flight.
- A controlled ascent to 2,000 feet.
- A passing score on the FAA Knowledge and Practical Tests.
Although you’ll be a wiz at hot air balloon operations, this license allows you to carry passengers for fun, but not for hire. During your private balloon training, you’ll have intense ground school instruction, become proficient with pilot operations, safety protocols, and learn how to instruct your ground crew or chase crew to help you in various situations.
Commercial Balloon Pilot Certificate
A commercial license opens the door to professional ballooning. Requirements include:
- A minimum of 35 flight hours in balloons, with at least:
- 10 hours of advanced flight instruction.
- A controlled ascent to 3,000 feet.
- Two 60-minute solo flights.
- Passing an advanced oral and flight test with an FAA designated pilot examiner.
While the commercial license is the highest certification, new pilots often spend additional hours gaining experience before flying passengers for hire. Most insurers require 80–100 hours of total flight time to cover commercial operations at a bare minimum. During your commercial balloon pilot training, you’ll learn additional operating procedures, better interpret weather reports and wind patterns, and train other pilots!
Training Options: Why a Part 141 Balloon School is the Best Choice
Although any commercial hot air balloon pilot can train you for both private and commercial certificates, attending a Part 141-certified flight school like Balloon, the Rockies provides a structured and efficient flight training program. They have the most qualified instructors in the world and help 100’s of people earn their hot air balloon licenses each year. Getting your hot air balloon pilot license could take as little at a 141 school or multiple years with a private instructor. These schools offer:
Expert Guidance: FAA-approved curriculum, advanced training, and experienced instructors. They also have a pilot examiner of the site.
Intensive Practice: 10–20 takeoffs and landings per flight and 3–4 hours of training per session. You’ll be an expert at emergency procedures and have excellent flight control.
Common Questions About Balloon Pilot Training
Do I Need a Medical Certificate?
No, the FAA does not require a medical certificate for balloon pilots. However, you must be in good health and free from conditions that could impair your ability to operate a balloon safely.
Can I Rent a Balloon?
Renting is rare, so most pilots choose to buy their own balloons. This investment pays off in reduced training costs and ensures access to an aircraft for future flights.
What Does a Typical Flight Cost?
Training flights with an instructor typically cost $750–$1,000. Owning your own balloon costs about $150-$200 per flight, plus fuel and insurance expenses. So, it ends up being around $400-$500 for a flight.
Get Started Today
The world of hot air ballooning is waiting for you. Whether you want to float above stunning landscapes or start a career sharing this magical experience with others, the journey begins with your first flight.
If you’re in Seattle and want to get involved, why not join a chase crew? It’s an exciting way to learn the ropes and get up close with hot air balloons. Call us at 206-747-5802 to learn more!
If you want to know more about when the hot air balloon was invented, or hot air balloon history! Take a look at our article on the history of hot air ballooning!
