Q:How do I know if my flight will go as scheduled?
A: We continually monitor weather conditions, and the decision on viability is made two hours prior to the scheduled flight. (Indeed, check out the second FAQ under Why? and Safety to see more details on our flight restrictions). Two hours before flight time, you can call our flight information line to hear about the flight status. However, even with the most advanced meteorological equipment, forecasts can be inaccurate. Rarely, a flight is delayed or canceled in the field, and all flight times and flight lengths can be affected by changing wind or weather conditions. Our pilots are highly experienced, and we will work diligently to ensure the most enjoyable flight possible. Again, any change after the status is issued on the flight information line is quite unusual. Once you hear that the flight is going as scheduled, you can fully expect a sensational experience to be awaiting your arrival.
Q: How far out do I need to schedule?
A: This is a tricky question... As I write this, I have availability today. That said, we normally tell our customers to expect two weeks. Some days and times are available much, much earlier, and you can often find availability within a day or two. On occasion, you will need a bit more lead time (esp. during fall colors or if you are only available Saturday evenings). Last year we took up over 900 passengers, and if your schedule was flexible, there was never a time when we were fully booked for more than two weeks. If you are anxious to schedule and would like to fly as soon as possible, take a peek at your weekdays, especially mornings - we often can get you on the schedule quite quickly. This is often not the case with smaller companies who cut their prices drastically, sell a ton of rides, and then do not have the balloons or pilots to support all of their customers. It is common for some of these smaller companies to schedule out a month during their slower times and multiple months for weekends. This becomes a great problem when you are in need of rescheduling or are fearful of your certificate expiring. Please hear me clearly, not all small companies operate in this fashion - enough do, however, to give balloon businesses a bad name. We are careful to never treat our customers in this manner.
Q: You just said Fall colors... I LOVE Fall colors. Can I go?
A: No. Okay, YES; you can go. But, no matter how beautiful and how enchanting, Fall is extremely difficult. Not only does the whole world want to fly, and not only are we under our normal flight restrictions, but Fall in Minnesota normally sees an increase in wind speeds and precipitation. We love flying in the Fall, and we would love to help you schedule a flight. If the weather is good, the views will be fabulous. But, if the weather is bad and your flight is grounded, remember: every season offers its own incredible beauty. Try a winter flight, or wait on lush summer views.
Q: I have a fetish for snow globes... what do you think?
A: Cool. We kind of have a thing for them too - only, we like to think big... really big. Imagine soaring over crystalline landscaping, the ground and roadways blanketed in white, every tree and chimney sparkling under the sun's early rays. If you're perpetually blessed, snow may still be silently falling about the balloon. Leaves are no more, so you will be able to see the wildlife darting through the sparse forest. Snuggling will be on the increase, and, with the snow absorbing ambient noise, peace reigns. Winter flights are amazing... really amazing. We think, "Yes!"
Q: Tipping, I never know what to do about tipping... tell me.
A: Wow, awkward. Tipping is present in most tourism and service industries. Offering balloon flights fits in here, so offering a gratuity would be acceptable. Additionally, tipping is nice. If you think that your pilot and crew were nice... go for it. That said, there is no sense of expectation or obligation... the situation is unique and we are easy! If you do decide to consider a tip, we are firm believers in earning not only your patronage, trust, and respect, but also any gratuities that you may offer. If you do not feel that our crew members surpassed your expectations... don't tip.