A Guide to Crewing for Hot-Air Balloons
Welcome to the wonderful world of Ballooning! If you are interested in becoming a part of the worlds first form of manned flight, this page will provide you the general resources necessary to understand being part of a chase crew.
Being part of a chase crew is great fun and not a lot of hard work. That said, all ballooning crews can use the crew training instructions listed here.
Before you get started, please note the following:
• Each balloon system is different
• Different pilots use different techniques
• Be sure to follow the pilot’s instructions
• Don't forget to ask your pilot questions
General rules for balloon chase crew members:
• Pilot is in charge (crew chief is when pilot is in air)
• No smoking
• Don't be late to launch field
• No drinking until balloon is packed
• Different pilots have different plans
• Don’t step on the balloon
• Only pull on the balloon by the thick load tapes
• Lift with legs & don't straddle ropes
• Wear Gloves
Welcome to the wonderful world of Ballooning! If you are interested in becoming a part of the worlds first form of manned flight, this page will provide you the general resources necessary to understand being part of a chase crew.
Being part of a chase crew is great fun and not a lot of hard work. That said, all ballooning crews can use the crew training instructions listed here.
Before you get started, please note the following:
• Each balloon system is different
• Different pilots use different techniques
• Be sure to follow the pilot’s instructions
• Don't forget to ask your pilot questions
General rules for balloon chase crew members:
• Pilot is in charge (crew chief is when pilot is in air)
• No smoking
• Don't be late to launch field
• No drinking until balloon is packed
• Different pilots have different plans
• Don’t step on the balloon
• Only pull on the balloon by the thick load tapes
• Lift with legs & don't straddle ropes
• Wear Gloves