Welcome, future adventurer! A hot air balloon ride over Sedona is an unforgettable experience, and we want to ensure you’re safe, comfortable, and prepared for every moment. To help you get ready, we’ve outlined the key physical requirements for hot air balloon riders so that you know exactly what to expect. 

Age and Height for Young Flyers 

Children need to be at least five years old and a minimum of 42” tall. This is one of our most important requirements for all our flights. For the safety and enjoyment of our youngest passengers, this rider requirement for hot air ballooning ensures that children can see over the basket, follow the pilot's instructions, and maintain proper landing positions throughout the experience. Parents—please dress your children warmly, especially on those brisk Sedona winter mornings! 

Ability To Stand 

Passengers must be able to stay standing for up to two hours. Your entire adventure, from preflight preparations to the final landing, can last about that long, with no seats in the basket. Fully enclosed, supportive shoes are musts for your comfort and safety. Unfortunately, if standing for this duration is challenging, you will not be able to fly with us. This policy is in place for your safety, which is our top priority. 

A Note for Expectant Mothers 

Pregnant? Congratulations! But our insurance company doesn’t allow us to fly you. While we love celebrating new beginnings, our insurance and safety regulations mean that expectant mothers cannot join the flight. This ensures the well-being of both parent and child, especially in the event of a harder or high-wind landing. 

Getting Into and Out of the Basket 

Passengers must be able to climb into and out of the balloon baskets. This requires using a step built into the side of the basket, then throwing a leg over the side, as though mounting a horse. Our pilots and crew are there to help every step of the way. However, you need sufficient mobility to independently manage the step-and-swing motion. 

No Walking Aids in the Basket 

Canes, walkers, crutches, and other walking assistance items are not permitted in the baskets. For stability and safety, everyone must stand unaided and keep the floor clear so that passengers can maintain secure grips during landing. If you usually use one of these aids, please call our team to discuss whether this adventure will be a good fit. 

Be Prepared for a Short Hike 

Passengers must be able to hike for up to a mile. Though extremely rare, there is a chance the balloons must land where trucks can’t go, requiring a short hike to reach the trucks. This means that comfortable clothing and sturdy, fully enclosed shoes are essential. 

The Nature of Balloon Landings 

Balloons don’t have brakes, so in the event of wind on landing, the pilots will use trees and bushes to slow the balloon, jostling passengers. Uncommon, but possible, are high-wind landings, which end with the basket on its side. Passengers need to be prepared for the possibility of such events. Most landings are gentle, but nature occasionally adds excitement. Your pilot will provide a detailed briefing and guide you on the best positions for a safe landing. 

Weight, Balance, and Safety 

We do not set a strict weight limit for hot air balloons, but providing your accurate weight is highly important for planning and safety. However, balloons are small aircraft with many of the same weight-and-balance restrictions as small airplanes. The hotter it is outside, the less weight we can accept. Having your exact weights is a safety issue, so please be accurate. 

Reviewing these physical requirements for hot air balloon riders before your trip will help you prepare for a smooth, memorable journey. Have further questions? Reach out to our friendly crew—we’re ready to help you take flight!