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Over Gatineau |
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Questions—Answers |
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Q How do you steer a hot air balloon?
A We use the different wind currents. Usually, between the surface and 5000 feet, a wind variation of about 45 degrees is present. Ideal conditions exists when the variation is of 90 degrees on a small altitude span. Exceptionally, when the wind variation is of 180 degrees, we can steer our way back to our departure point. ———————————————————————————- Q At what altitude do you fly?
A Usually between 500 feet and 1500 feet above ground. If needed, to find the right wind currents, we can go up to 9000 feet. ———————————————————————————- Q Is it cold up there?
A The usual temperature difference is of 2 degrees per 1000 feet of altitude. Because the relative wind is nil and because the burner radiates heat toward the basket, it is often warmer in the air then on the ground. ———————————————————————————- Q Can you fly in winter?
A Winter flying is a lot of fun. We can fly during the day. Flight can be longer. However, it is harder to retrieve the balloon from the snow covered fields. ———————————————————————————- Q Why do you only fly morning and evening?
A During the day, the sun creates thermal turbulences that make flying a balloon hazardous. We fly in the morning before the sun creates turbulence and at the end of the day when the turbulence dissipates. |
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Rona hot air balloon |
