The hot air balloon, as we know it today, was invented in the 18th century by two Frenchmen from Annonay in Ardèche: the now-famous Montgolfier Brothers.

They marked the very beginning of human aerial activity.

These hot air balloons still fly today, allowing many people to relive the first human flight within Earth's atmosphere.

Large gathering of Albuquerque USA


History reveals that humans have always dreamed of flying. It was only with the invention of the hot air balloon that this dream became a reality.

The Montgolfier brothers, Joseph and Étienne, born in 1740 and 1745 respectively, were two of Pierre Montgolfier's thirteen sons. For many years, they worked in a paper mill inherited from their father around 1772. They are credited with inventing the first paper-making machine, and the mill is now a museum you can visit.

The scientific advancements of the time, particularly the discovery of hydrogen, its flammability, and studies on its density, fascinated the Montgolfier brothers. Today, a hot air balloon typically operates on propane, unlike airships, which use hydrogen.

Joseph discovered the power of hot air in a chimney while attempting to "warm up" a shirt before putting it on. The fantastical nature of the experiment captivated the Montgolfier brothers, who eventually built the first hot air balloon out of paper—without a passenger.

This first official flight took place on 4 June 1783 in Annonay.

The magic of a ball in ball


The first manned flight, however, occurred a few months later in front of King Louis XVI. The passengers were not humans but a duck, a sheep, and a rooster, followed by three men in October of the same year.

How does it work?

A hot air balloon consists of:

  • An envelope: Since hot air is lighter than cold air, the balloon is inflated with hot air to achieve lift. The envelope traps the hot air. Its volume varies depending on the basket size and the weight to be lifted.
Indeed, for every cubic metre of air heated to 100°C, approximately 250 grams can be lifted. The envelope's volume can range from 600 to 7,000 cubic metres.

  • A basket: The basket carries the crew and the propane supply needed for the flight's duration.
The basket is traditionally woven from wicker. Many materials were tested to maximise passenger comfort, but wicker proved to be the most flexible and robust, absorbing shocks during landing.

  • A burner: The burner's role is straightforward—it heats the air by producing a flame at the envelope's opening.
If you're looking to go somewhere specific, a hot air balloon may not be for you. It cannot be steered and instead drifts with the wind.

Festival de Montgolfières


However, an experienced balloonist can control altitude by adjusting the burner and use air currents to influence the balloon's direction.

The hot air balloon, steeped in history, still flies today. Ballooning clubs exist across France and the world.

If you decide to embark on this adventure, know that beyond reliving the sensations of the first men to take flight, you'll discover an extraordinary and poetic activity high in the sky.

You'll take off from an open area when weather conditions are most favourable: in the morning or evening, when winds are light and visibility is clear.

Then, it's your turn to enjoy the spectacle. With your senses heightened, you'll experience unforgettable emotions and sensations. More than a journey through the air, it's a journey through time aboard this magnificent aerostat that marked the dawn of aviation history.

Take the plunge with a hot air balloon ride in the heart of France's most beautiful regions! Share your experience in our dedicated hot air ballooning forum.