Frequently Asked Questions
About Hot Air Ballooning
When do hot air balloon flights take place?
We offer spectacular Temecula sunrise hot air balloon rides. Our sunrise flights take off from the Vail Lake Resort in the stunning inland wine country area of Temecula, in Eastern San Diego County. The actual times and launch locations of our flights are determined by the sunrise and each day’s prevailing wind directions.
What is the actual time of day of the balloon flights?
Our balloon flights meet at sunrise, and the times vary with the season. When you book your flight we will give you an exact time as well as directions to the Vail Lake location to meet us.
Are hot air balloon flights only during certain months of the year?
No, we fly our balloons during all times of the year. Weather conditions and prevailing winds will determine whether or not we can fly.
Where do we meet for our balloon flight?
We meet at the Vail Lake Resort in Temecula, 9 miles east of Hwy 15 at 40500 Hwy 79 South. The exact launch spot will be decided in real time and will depend on that day’s wind direction.
What if I am coming from San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County or Riverside County?
Many people come from neighboring counties to experience the thrill of our balloon adventure. The scenic views and wide variety of entertainment available make the Vail Lake Resort and the Temecula wine country an ideal spot for a day trip or a side trip on your vacation. From Los Angeles, you can reach us at the Vail Lake Resort within 90 to 130 minutes, approximately 1 hour driving from San Diego and a trip from Orange County can be as quick as a 50 minute ride.
How long is a balloon flight?
Our balloon flights are about 45 minutes to an hour long, depending on the wind and weather on the day of your flight. Wind speed and direction determine how long we are able to remain aloft and can never be guaranteed. The pre-launch safety briefing, preparing the balloon for lift off, landing and transporting you to the outdoor champagne brunch picnic site add about two hours to the flight, so allow for a total of 3 to 3 ½ hours for your tour.
What happens during my hot air balloon ride?
Your flight offers you a view like no other. Enjoy the view, listen to the wind, enjoy the complimentary champagne and other non-alcoholic beverages, or just listen to the quiet. Your pilot will present you with an in flight informative narrative about the area as well as point out the wild deer, mountain lions, large hawks and other birds of prey flying over the area. You can talk with your fellow passengers, ask questions of the pilot and take pictures or video of the incredible sights. It’s up to you!
What kind of clothes should I wear on my balloon flight?
You want to dress comfortably for your flight and wear closed toe walking shoes, like boots or tennis shoes. Open toed sandals or high heels should not be worn, dresses may make it difficult for you to climb into and out of the basket, and shorts may not be warm enough. In colder months, dressing in layers will help you adapt to the early morning cool temperatures on the ground and in the air. A cap is recommended for tall passengers and those with thinning hair. And, don’t forget your still or video camera!
Is it cold on a hot air balloon ride?
The temperature during the flight is much the same as on the ground. At the highest point of your flight the air may only be 5-10 degrees warmer or cooler depending on the season.
How many people can go on a hot air balloon flight?
The basket carrying passengers is designed by balloon manufacturers for flight efficiency and safety. We use European gondolas (baskets) that have high sides with padded compartments for secure and uncrowded comfort. This way everyone gets a great view. Our basket sizes vary from 6 to 12 person plus pilot sizes, and our largest basket can easily carry a group of 16 people. For larger groups we use multiple balloons. Single guests, couples, families and small or large groups can all be accommodated. Private flights are available for that very special occasion. Please ask us to quote you a rate for a private balloon flight rather than being assigned to a shared gondola. Whatever type of balloon flight you choose, it will be a great experience and lots of fun!
How far in advance do I need to book my balloon ride?
If you have a particular day in mind for your balloon ride, it’s good to book about a week or two in advance. Certain times of the year are busier, but if we have a cancellation we may be able to fit you in on short notice. Call us to ask – we are here to help.
How do hot air balloons work?
The air inside a hot air balloon is heated by propane burners. This hot air, as hot as 250 degrees Fahrenheit, allows the pilot to guide the balloon up to the desired altitude. Slight releasing of a very little amount of the hot air will gently guide the descent of the balloon back to earth as the temperature of the air inside the balloon cools. To prolong a flight or control the rate of the descent, the pilot can continue to heat the air and release a little to seek varying wind currents to steer him toward his desired landing site.
What is a hot air balloon made of?
The balloon, or envelope, is typically made of a specially coated, rip-stop nylon. In some balloons, the envelope is made of Dacron.
Why is the balloon basket made of wicker?
Wicker is lightweight, yet sturdy material. It is also flexible but great to look at.
How big do hot air balloons get?
The largest commercially operated balloons can be as big as 600,000 cubic feet. However, the average size commercial hot air balloons flown in California are between 180,000 to 300,000 cubic feet. This size of balloon provides plenty of lift and control .
How high does the hot air balloon go?
Most balloon flights with passengers go between 1000 and 5000 feet from the ground. Allowed altitudes are strictly enforced by the FAA. The higher altitudes offer beautiful, panoramic views of Temecula Wine Country and the entire unspoiled terrain, foothills and lake at the Vail Lake Resort. During the balloon’s landing, we sometimes skim across the tops of the trees and through the fields before coming to a gentle stop. .
What fuels a hot air balloon?
Hot air balloons are fueled by heating the same air we breathe. Heating the air with propane burners makes the balloon rise.
How does the pilot steer the hot air balloon?
Wind directions slightly change at different altitudes, so the pilot steers the balloon by changing altitude to find a wind current that will take the balloon in various directions. Our pilots use GPS instruments to aid them in reaching their desired landing spots.
Why do hot air balloons fly only in the early morning or late afternoon?
Air is most stable during the very early hours of the day, making it the ideal time for a longer ride and more favorable landing conditions. Balloons fly most efficiently in cooler temperatures so we launch as early as possible to avoid the hot temperatures that create thermal activity.
Is a hot air balloon ride safe?
At Temecula Air Affair we have an excellent safety record. Our balloons are regularly inspected by the Federal Aviation Administration and are inspected and maintained at a FAA certified repair station. We keep our equipment in top operating condition and offer the safest and most reliable ballooning experience available. Many of our FAA Certified pilots were trained by our company and have been with us since the start of the company. We have been operating balloon companies and flying in the greater San Diego area for 35 years! All of our FAA Certified balloon pilots have more than 1000 hours each of safe flying experience.
Unlike some hot air balloon sites you will see on the internet, we are not a broker or middleman that arranges balloon rides for pay with outside companies. Your tour is personally operated by us with our highly trained FAA certified pilots and staff. Our goal is to give you a memorable and safe adventure.
Do I have to sign a waiver to fly on a balloon ride?
There is risk in flying in any aircraft, so we do have a waiver. Most of the risk is due to what cannot be predicted, like weather conditions. Signing our waiver is similar to the required waiver for horseback riding or other recreational activities.
Is age or health a consideration in flying?
We do not recommend a balloon flight for children under the age of six or for adults in poor health. Some exceptions can be made with a written note from the passenger’s physician. Other considerations in flying include: pregnant women, recent surgery, and people with serious mobility problems. Passengers must stand during the entire flight and although our flight crew will provide assistance, you will need some agility to get in and out of the balloon basket. The manufacturers did not design the baskets to accommodate wheelchairs or other similar devices. The landing may be bumpy, but safety is always our number one priority. If you have concerns, please discuss them with our representative when you are making your reservation.
Does Temecula Air Affair carry insurance?
We carry State of California legally required amounts for passenger liability, property damage and medical coverage. Proof of insurance is available with advance notice.
What is Temecula Air Affair’s safety record?
We have an excellent safety record. During the entire history of our company, we have never had a crash, accident or injury. Your safety is our number one priority.
If I am afraid of heights, should I go on a balloon ride?
Balloon rides are very different than standing on a cliff or the edge of a building. There should be no feeling of vertigo while in the balloon and the high sides of our baskets and sturdy floor give you a safe and stable feel. There is no motion, swaying or vibration as the balloon moves within the eye of the wind. If you suffer from motion sickness in a car or boat, you will not be bothered in a balloon.
Can my family and friends follow our balloon ride in their car?
Since our launch sites are on private property and we have limited access to these lands it is generally not feasible to follow the balloon ride from the ground. In addition, it can be dangerous to drive and watch a hot air balloon at the same time.
Should I tip my pilot and crew?
It is common practice to offer a cash gratuity to the hard working flight crew of your balloon ride. Like any personal service, if they do a great job, a gratuity shows your appreciation. An appropriate tip is between $20 and $50 and can be given to your pilot to share with the rest of the crew or added to your credit card. If you wish that your gratuity be added to your credit card at payment processing time, please advise our representative when calling in for the weather check the night before your scheduled flight. Credit cards are not processed on the field the morning of your flight so be sure to advise our office the night before. Thank you!
What happens when we land from the balloon ride?
When the balloon lands your pilot will advise you when and how to exit the balloon. The ground crew will pack up the hot air balloon while you are driven back to the place where you parked your car and where you will enjoy a champagne breakfast brunch picnic with all the passengers and the pilots.
What happens if I cancel, reschedule or I am late for my balloon flight?
Due to the limited capacity and weight requirements on a hot air balloon, all cancellations and rescheduling of dates must be made no later than 48 hours before the date and check-in time of your scheduled flight. No refunds will be given for a late cancellation or a no show! Please be on time-- we will have to begin without you if you are not at the designated location and check in time provided to you when you made your flight reservations. Thank you for your full cooperation in this regard.
I have more questions – what should I do?
We are always happy to answer your questions. Please talk to one of our representatives before your flight or you can also ask your pilot any questions during your pre-flight briefing.
Vail Lake in Temecula Wine Country!
Vail Lake makes a beautiful backdrop for your balloon flight. Just east of Temecula and on the south edge of the Temecula Wine Country it covers 11,000 acres and has a storage capacity of 51,000 acre-feet. The Lake was created in 1948 when the owners of the Vail Ranch constructed the 132-foot high Vail Lake Damn.
Recreational activities at Vail Lake include hot air ballooning, fishing, boating, RV and tent camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, miniature golf and swimming.
Land near Vail Lake is the only known native habitat of the endangered flowering shrub Ceanothus ophiochilus, which was named the Vail Lake ceanothus when it was discovered in 1989.
Temecula Valley & Wine Country Offers Entertainment for All!
If you are in Temecula for the Old Town Temecula Bluegrass Festival, Temecula Rod Run, Temecula Valley World of Wine tasting, Grape Day wine conference, Temecula Wine & Music Festival, Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival, Temecula International Jazz Festival, or the Free Jazz Sunday at Falkner Winery, give us a call to set up your spectacular sunrise hot air balloon adventure!
More Entertainment in Temecula . . .
Temecula offers the Stellar Cellar Wine Bar & Music, Hot Rod Fridays, Temecula Wine Country Pumpkin Farm, Temecula Valley International Film & Music Festival, A Taste of Autumn Winemaking Seminar at Callaway Vineyards & Winery, Oktoberfest at Mount Palomar winery, and La Jolla Gallery & Wine Walk.
Pechanga Resort / Casino
A vast 200,000+ square foot gaming floor makes Pechanga Casino California’s biggest casino. A multitude of AAA 4-Diamond amenities and services make Pechanga California’s best! The Temecula, CA location makes it a quick stop for anyone planning a hot air balloon flight with Temecula Air Affair!
Temecula Air Affair hot air balloon rides are just a short drive from San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County or Riverside Counties.
Hot Air Balloon Rides for San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside Counties in Southern California.
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