Experience the Romance of Ballooning
For unsurpassable honesty, integrity, quality and attention to detail, Up & Away Ballooning is the choice of visitors from around the world. We fly the newest Federal Aviation Administration (F.A.A.) certified balloon equipment in the area and our uniformed, professional staff will provide the most memorable, first class experience possible. Up & Away Ballooning carries fewer passengers per balloon. Our fleet of beautiful, brightly colored balloons can accommodate couples, families and groups. Large groups can easily be flown with multiple balloons. Private flights for two are also available, subject to availability. This is especially important if this is a special occasion such as a marriage proposal, a wedding (we love doing weddings), an anniversary or a birthday celebration! Or just for the enjoyment of the oldest form of flight known to man.
The beginning of your morning We meet at the Sonoma County Airport just outside of Santa Rosa. From there we will travel to the best launch site available to ensure a scenic and safe flight. The flight will last approximately one hour and can range from 3 to 10 miles depending on the wind currents. What should we wear? The best way to go is with layered, natural fiber clothing. Long pants and sturdy shoes are also the fashion norm in ballooning; no sandals or shorts yet, save those for later. Our mornings are cool but soon warm up as the day progresses. Let's get ready to Fly!! When we get to the launch field, we (the pilot and crew, but please help us, as that is part of the fun) lay out the balloon and cold inflate it. This is done by blowing cold air into the envelope (the big colorful bag). When it is time to go hot (whoa!), hot air from the burners (heat maker) is put into the balloon and it stands up ready for flight! Time to jump in, get a safety/orientation briefing and lets go flying! Where are we going today? This is a frequently asked question, which is usually answered with, "Where Mother Nature sends us". Actually, prior to meeting, the pilot will have kept a close watch on the weather patterns and will have gotten a weather briefing from the F.A.A. Flight Service Station. With that knowledge it is determined where to set-up and in which general direction we will go. The winds at altitude actually travel in "layers" and it is these "layers" that are used to steer the balloon around the heavens. Pretty cool! What will we see, hear and experience while flying? Depending on the altitude, you may see the Pacific Ocean, look into the Napa Valley or on a clear day, the buildings in San Francisco 60 miles away! At lower altitudes we will fly just above the grapevines and see rabbits, deer and other wildlife. We may even dip into a lake or pond for a "Splash and Dash". When the pilot is not adding heat to the balloon, you will hear peace and quiet. You will also feel the unique experience of looking out all four "windows". No other form of flight offers such oneness with nature. It's not over . . . click on Champagne Brunch to continue the Romance!