FAQs
How safe is it?
Balloons travel very slowly. They are built very simply. Our hand-picked pilots are very experienced. The Civil Aviation Authority oversees our operation. This makes your flight with us all very safe. Ballooning is the safest of all air sports and has an extremely low accident record. Espiritu's is zero.
Do I have to book a date? Can I buy a Voucher instead and set the date later?
You can purchase a flight voucher, for example as a gift for someone, and then they can decide when they want to fly. Our vouchers are valid for a year and if you have a change of personal circumstances or the weather lets you down on a few occasions, we will extend your voucher. If you want to choose a date first, then you'll need to contact the office on 0845 456 4202. Monday mornings are always very busy so do try to ring during the rest of the week if you prefer to avoid call queues.
How many people does the basket carry?
We fly several different basket sizesf rom pilot plus three or four passengers, up to pilot plus 12 persons. Whatever the basket size, we assure you of a personal service, and maximum technical flying flexibility.
How much time do I need to allow?
Allow around 4 hours from start to finish and you are almost certain to be back at base! We fly for an hour before finalising a landing point. It is not possible to predict exactly the duration of your adventure because of variations in wind speed, direction and landing terrain.
What do I need to bring and wear?
It is no colder in the basket than on the ground. Please wear long trousers and long sleeved tops preferably in natural fibres, even in Summer. We suggest sensible walking footwear and trousers whatever the time of year. In Winter, wrap up to ensure that you stay warm whilst standing in the basket. You are welcome to bring a snack and flask along on the flight. Above all, review any documentation before attending.
Is there any restriction on who can fly?
There is no upper age limit. We recommend that those with any health concern or a disability, telephone us to discuss the matter. All participants must be able to remain standing for the flight. Children under the age of 16 will be carried when accompanied by an adult. Children under the age of 7 will not be carried. If you have a disability or any other physical limitation, please telephone us to discuss your individual needs.
Where will my flight take me?
The charm and mystery of a balloon flight comes largely from the fact that we have vertical control (to the nearest centimetre) and can only control our direction by choosing different altitudes with different directions. So the quick answer, is "no idea"! At Espiritu, our experienced pilots make the most of different wind layers to add interest to your flight. The smaller traditional basket and envelope means more choice over how high and low you fly and where that takes you - so long as you remember that the wind always has the last word! Flight altitude can be up to 9,000 feet though most people prefer to fly well below this. The choice of landing site is made during the final flight phase.
What if the weather is bad?
Obviously there are some weather conditions which do not permit us to fly, such as strong winds or rain. We will tell you at the time of the pre-flight call whether we are putting the flight "on". This means that we intend to meet on site and that we think weather conditions are likely to be suitable. Sometimes we put the flight "on" and meet on site and the winds do not drop out early enough and we have to "cancel on site". This is quite rare and occurs mostly when weather conditions are very changeable and we have to be ready to take advantage of the conditions if the winds do drop in time for a flight. If we do have to postpone your flight and call it "off", you can re-book on-line or by phone. Rest assured that we will get you flying just as soon as we possibly can, and from your preferred launchsite too!
Can I involve family and friends?
Yes, we encourage participation. They can join in with the flight preparations, the inflation and follow on the balloon retrieve either in their own vehicle, or if space allows, in our retrieve vehicle.