Your curiosity about hot air balloons might stem from a recent idyllic journey, an enthralling read about the most bucolic landscapes, or simply because you fancied it. But it’s no surprise—balloons have captivated attention since their creation in the 18th century to this day. You don’t have to be a child to be awestruck when you see one of these giants flying above you.
So, if you’re looking to leave everyone speechless with your mastery of balloons, the first thing you need to start with is knowing the parts that make up these aircraft.
Primarily, modern hot air balloons consist of three distinct parts, from the top down to the "basket": the envelope or canopy, the burners, and the basket.
- The envelope is the famous colourful canopy we see, the most distinctive feature of the balloon and how we recognise it at a glance. It’s responsible for keeping the balloon airborne and is made of synthetic material that withstands high internal temperatures.
- Between the canopy and the basket, above our heads, you’d find the burners, the part where propane gas is directed into the envelope, making flight possible.
- Attached to the canopy is the basket, the wicker compartment where passengers travel. It’s typically made of woven rattan with a metal frame and connected to the canopy via cables.
These parts are very distinct from one another, so you won’t struggle to tell them apart. In fact, it seems almost magical that an aircraft of such size can fly without relying on any engine, using only hot gas and air currents. That’s why seeing a balloon in flight—let alone travelling in one—is truly impressive. No turbulence, no jolts... just a gentle glide across the sky of your choice, leaving you with an incredible sense of freedom.
But if you really want to become a connoisseur and learn all the details surrounding hot air balloon flights, your best bet is to click here and not waste another minute booking your aerial adventure. You can choose any destination in our country, and only then can you proudly declare yourself a true expert in the world of hot air balloons.
