With the global adventure tourism industry recording double digit growth rates annually, ballooning has re-emerged as a new and highly rewarding 21st century career – Paromita Sengupta The hot air balloon has flown a long way since its maiden flight manned by two Frenchmen soared 3,000 ft over Paris in the 18th century. Three centuries later it has re-emerged as a popular flying machine used the world over to provide thrilling adventure and entertainment experiences. Commercial hot air balloons are lighter-than-air aircraft comprising a bag (aka envelope) made of fire-resistant material that holds heated air. Suspended beneath is a ‘gondola’ or wicker basket to accommodate passengers, and a source of heat. In most cases, an open flame ignited by burning liquid propane or LPG is used. Unlike hot air balloons driven by the wind, thermal airships can be propelled through the air. Latter day ballooning in India is a fair weather winter months activity for tourists, advertisers eager to promote their products and air balloon enthusiasts with a yen to view the world from on high. Licensed balloon pilots (mainly freelancers) are hired by adventure tourism companies and advertisers. They require intensive training and licensing as they are responsible for the safety of passengers, flight-path decisions, crew and equipment. The adventure tourism industry which has recorded significant growth (17 percent CAGR) globally and is projected to attain a revenue of $13 billion (Rs.9,100 crore) by 2023, has revived and boosted the ballooning business worldwide. Study programmes To qualify as a hot air balloon pilot, aspirants over 18 years of age are eligible to apply to balloon flight training schools in the UK/US/Europe. As yet, formal balloon flight training schools havent sprung up in India. To meet the civil aviation ministry’s testing standards for hot air ballooning, flight schools offer study programmes in practical knowledge and flight instruction. The syllabus covers subjects such as meteorology, airmanship, navigation, flight rules, codes of conduct, pre and post-flight procedures, balloon manoeuvres, emergency procedures and knowledge of basic civil aviation regulations. After logging a minimum 35 hours flying time as a light airplane pilot, 20 hours flying time in balloons, six hours flying time with a flight instructor, two solo flights, two flights of over one hour, and one flight over 5,000 ft, candidates are ready for a final flight test and certification by an examiner. Foreign licence holders are required to write a composite exam conducted by the Delhi-based Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Pay & perks Hot air balloon pilots in India are usually paid according to the number of flights logged during a season. Freshers (co-pilots) can expect Rs.30,000-60,000 per month with pay packages rising to Rs.1-2 lakh per month for experienced pilots. Advertisers who hire balloons and the services of their owners (usually pilots) tend to pay Rs.80,000-1.5 lakh per season. Balloon rides don’t come cheap and can cost up to Rs.2,000-3,000 per adult for a 15-minute joy ride. Licensed balloon pilots are hired by adventure tourism companies and advertisers.…
