"PANDA-MONIUM"
Hot Air Balloon FLIGHTS
Hot Air Balloon FLIGHTS
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The Pilot / Safety / FAQ
A calm inflation, let the excitement & fun begin !
Why a "P r i v a t e" flight . . . .
Let's face it ..a Hot Air Balloon flight is a Awesome experience and a PRIVATE flight for two is similar to having your very own, exclusive limo in the sky. When compared to riding in a larger balloon, with 8 to 12 other passengers .... a PRIVATE flight differs in that it is a unique, once in a lifetime experience, shared just with that someone special, that will be remembered and cherished, for many years to come, an in such a cute and adoreable Panda character or a standard shape, it is truly one-of-a-kind. We encourage you to compare our rates, to that of others, for a similar flight, you may be pleasantly surprized !
This is the ONLY shaped Hot Air Balloon offering passenger flights in the Southern California area, that you can be sure of, at no additional charge.
Safety . . .In order to insure your experience is safe we have set parameters that we adhere to....such as wind speed an direction limits, both of these factors are 90% routine and allows us the ability to fly 300 days of the year, we monitor the weather and if conditions are marginal we will share this info to you, allowing you at no additional cost to reschedule.
All of the equipment at "Panda-monium" Balloon flights has been rigorously inspected and tested to the highest standards by a FAA certified inspector.
Safety is our number one concern.
Prior to the start of our flight, on the launch field the pilot will give a detailed safety brief, sharing key points of concern to you so that your flight will be a safe an enjoyable experience.
Attire :
We recommend for your comfort -dress casual and wear flat shoes. Bring a light jacket or sweater to take with you to chase the early morning /early evening chill away. Don't forget your camera as there will be many "kodak moments" along the adventure.
Our Reservation /Cancellation policy. . . . .
Reservations are required and are made on a first come first served basis, an our phones are up most hours ,7 days a week. It is not unusual to book a flight the same day you call or for the very next day... It is certainly worth a try! If you need to accommodate a certain date(birthday, anniversary or what ever your special plans are) booking as far in advance is highly recommended. If something comes up that forces you to change your plans, we require at least a 48 hours,prior notice of your booking -Otherwise you will be charged the full fare.
If poor/unfavorable weather forces us to cancel for your safety there is no charge to reschedule, should you desire to reschedule. No refund is available on the deposit, your reservations are tranferable for use by family or friends for up to one year, however there are black out dates- please inquire for details.
We require an advance payment of 25% in either check or cash payment,
(sorry no credit cards)to guarantee the reservation....and the balance on the day of the flight. To assure your comfort an safety we will need the combined weight of your party of two, as we factor in the flight conditions -which include total weight of basket and temperature at flight time.
" Taking fun / adventure to new heights ! "
About the Pilot . . .
Tim Chico, a FAA (Federal Avaition Administration) certified commercial Hot Air Balloon pilot and flight instructor has a perfect safety record flying over 7 years in the southern California area as well as events in the southwest region of the U.S. also flew for the first time in 2007, at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Tim's interest in ballooning started some 10 years ago as a freelance photographer then on to a ground crew member, crew chief, seeing the only way to truly enjoy what ballooning has to offer was to move up -literally .. so a few years later in 1999, Tim was certified as a private pilot... then a year later in 2000 ... was certified as a commercial pilot.
A full time active duty U.S. Marine, Tim is a combat veteran serving in conflicts from Desert Storm to Operation Iraqi Freedom.
With close to 20 years active service-rest assured your in good hands.
Drifting low along the Rio Grande, in Albuquerque N.M.
Contact Us . . .
Call or email for more information.......
CELL: 760 717 - 8444
HOME: 760 430 - 7482
email : pamortim@yahoo.com
Frequently asked Questions.
Who we are . . .
"Panda-monium" Hot Air Balloon flights specializes in "PRIVATE" flights - in the only shaped balloon in the area. We also have a colorful traditional balloon as well, the choice is yours.
Our company provides safe and enjoyable balloon flights following the traditions of the early aeronauts, embarking on a journey filled with moments of peaceful serenity and excitement as well. As our honored guests your flight is guaranteed to be a unique, breathtaking an memorable experience.
When do you fly. . . . .
Flights typically depart either shortly after sunrise or a hour prior to sunset when the earth is cooler and the winds are calm. Hot Air Balloon flights can only occur when the weather is idea, we must have good visibility and safe wind speeds usually not more than 8 -10 mph.
Where do we land . . . .
We land approx 8 -10 miles down wind of the direction we are flying. Balloons travel only with the wind an at the speed of the wind.At different altitudes there are different wind directions...as the pilot climbs or descends to different altitudes the pilot can maneuver the balloon in different directions. We are in constant contact with our ground crew also known as "chase crew" they are a vital part of every flight , from the launch...during the flight ...and upon landing an recovery.
What is the Balloon made of . . . .
Hot Air Balloons are made of strong, durable ripstop nylon, it is lightweight strong material that is heat resistant an can withstand tempetures of up to 200+ degrees at the top of the balloon, this is similar material to that of parachutes, balloon fabric is different in that a coating has been applied so that the hot air will stay in the balloon .
How high will we go . . . .
Our flights usually will have us at apporx. 1000ft -2000ft. We are able to climb higher or decend lower and maneuver the balloon for the best view. This also allows us to catch the most favable winds. If you have a fear of heights you will quickly put those concerns behind you, as you are moving with the wind currents, there is no rocking, swaying or feeling of movement.
Hot Air Balloons are unique from all other forms of flight. You are moving on the gentle air currents that layer the sky. In comparision to standing on a structure or building , in a balloon your eyes have no linear perspective to judge distance from the ground. The feeling is one of peace and tranquility as the earth seems to slowly decend and rotate below you. Within moments after launch, you become completly at ease while you drift over the tree tops and across the sky in gentle harmony with nature, enjoying the 360 degree panoramic view that surrounds you.
Is Hot Air Ballooning Safe . . . .
Absolutely! In order to fly paying passengers a pilot must have a commercial pilots certificate issued by the Federal Avaition Administration
These balloons have regulations just as any other type aircraft. And inspections are required by a FAA certified inspector and balloons that carry passengers for hire, have even more rigorous maintenance requirments.
Can children fly too . . . .
We encourage families to participate in Hot Air Ballooning. However one should consider these few issues before deciding to bring children,
a.The sides of the basket are close to 4 ft tall, therefore children who have not reached this height, will be limited in the beautiful views an will be easily distracted.
b. The burners are another consideration to look at, as they are just above and are very loud and warm, this tends to frighten an scare children.
Because of these reasons an past experiences we discourage children under the age of 7 years of age.... participating in a balloon adventure.
Who should not fly . . . . .
If you are *pregnant, taking medication, oxygen, bad knees or bad back are all serious medical considerations we recommend you speak to your doctor, prior to booking a Hot Air Balloon flight.
(* past 2nd trimester of pregnancy is not recommended.)
Balloon Crew . . . . .
The crew of a Hot Air Balloon is essential for safe operation from launch site set-up, during flight, and recovery pack-up. The crew is in constant contact with the pilot by radio, an informs the pilot of access issues that may prevent a safe landing or the fact that a land owner has invited us to land on his property. All crew members have numerous years of chase /recovery experience an there goal is to be near the balloon upon landing.
Can Hot Air Balloons be at my event/ party . . . . .
Yes ! At your next special event consider the possibilities of offering a treat unlike any one else, please keep in mind the location of your celebration must be large enough to allow this. A Balloon tether is where the Balloon is tied/anchored to the ground with ropes and also to the balloon, we then can offer rides in which your pilot will allow the balloon to climb to approx 70 ft.....then slowly decend an land.
If you have a special occasion or event, a tethered balloon ride would be the perfect way to give many people a taste, of what a balloon flight would be like. Generally the best time for tethers is shortly after sunrise and a few hours before sunset when the winds are generally light. However, it is possible when the winds are light and varible all day long. So the time of day that we can tether the balloon is completely dependant on the weather.
Please contact for special details and rates, this is ideal for corporate or private functions
* previous celebrations/events
- science class demonstrations at high schools.
- egg drop competitions.
- football game half time events, high school prom/homecoming.
- unique fund raiser.
- outdoor wedding dinner backdrop.
- advertise your corporates logo/or sponsor info
Tim Chico, a FAA (Federal Avaition Administration) certified commercial Hot Air Balloon pilot and flight instructor has a perfect safety record flying over 7 years in the southern California area as well as events in the southwest region of the U.S. also flew for the first time in 2007, at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Tim's interest in ballooning started some 10 years ago as a freelance photographer then on to a ground crew member, crew chief, seeing the only way to truly enjoy what ballooning has to offer was to move up -literally .. so a few years later in 1999, Tim was certified as a private pilot... then a year later in 2000 ... was certified as a commercial pilot.
A full time active duty U.S. Marine, Tim is a combat veteran serving in conflicts from Desert Storm to Operation Iraqi Freedom.
With close to 20 years active service-rest assured your in good hands.
Drifting low along the Rio Grande, in Albuquerque N.M.
Contact Us . . .
Call or email for more information.......
CELL: 760 717 - 8444
HOME: 760 430 - 7482
email : pamortim@yahoo.com
Frequently asked Questions.
Who we are . . .
"Panda-monium" Hot Air Balloon flights specializes in "PRIVATE" flights - in the only shaped balloon in the area. We also have a colorful traditional balloon as well, the choice is yours.
Our company provides safe and enjoyable balloon flights following the traditions of the early aeronauts, embarking on a journey filled with moments of peaceful serenity and excitement as well. As our honored guests your flight is guaranteed to be a unique, breathtaking an memorable experience.
When do you fly. . . . .
Flights typically depart either shortly after sunrise or a hour prior to sunset when the earth is cooler and the winds are calm. Hot Air Balloon flights can only occur when the weather is idea, we must have good visibility and safe wind speeds usually not more than 8 -10 mph.
Where do we land . . . .
We land approx 8 -10 miles down wind of the direction we are flying. Balloons travel only with the wind an at the speed of the wind.At different altitudes there are different wind directions...as the pilot climbs or descends to different altitudes the pilot can maneuver the balloon in different directions. We are in constant contact with our ground crew also known as "chase crew" they are a vital part of every flight , from the launch...during the flight ...and upon landing an recovery.
What is the Balloon made of . . . .
Hot Air Balloons are made of strong, durable ripstop nylon, it is lightweight strong material that is heat resistant an can withstand tempetures of up to 200+ degrees at the top of the balloon, this is similar material to that of parachutes, balloon fabric is different in that a coating has been applied so that the hot air will stay in the balloon .
How high will we go . . . .
Our flights usually will have us at apporx. 1000ft -2000ft. We are able to climb higher or decend lower and maneuver the balloon for the best view. This also allows us to catch the most favable winds. If you have a fear of heights you will quickly put those concerns behind you, as you are moving with the wind currents, there is no rocking, swaying or feeling of movement.
Hot Air Balloons are unique from all other forms of flight. You are moving on the gentle air currents that layer the sky. In comparision to standing on a structure or building , in a balloon your eyes have no linear perspective to judge distance from the ground. The feeling is one of peace and tranquility as the earth seems to slowly decend and rotate below you. Within moments after launch, you become completly at ease while you drift over the tree tops and across the sky in gentle harmony with nature, enjoying the 360 degree panoramic view that surrounds you.
Is Hot Air Ballooning Safe . . . .
Absolutely! In order to fly paying passengers a pilot must have a commercial pilots certificate issued by the Federal Avaition Administration
These balloons have regulations just as any other type aircraft. And inspections are required by a FAA certified inspector and balloons that carry passengers for hire, have even more rigorous maintenance requirments.
Can children fly too . . . .
We encourage families to participate in Hot Air Ballooning. However one should consider these few issues before deciding to bring children,
a.The sides of the basket are close to 4 ft tall, therefore children who have not reached this height, will be limited in the beautiful views an will be easily distracted.
b. The burners are another consideration to look at, as they are just above and are very loud and warm, this tends to frighten an scare children.
Because of these reasons an past experiences we discourage children under the age of 7 years of age.... participating in a balloon adventure.
Who should not fly . . . . .
If you are *pregnant, taking medication, oxygen, bad knees or bad back are all serious medical considerations we recommend you speak to your doctor, prior to booking a Hot Air Balloon flight.
(* past 2nd trimester of pregnancy is not recommended.)
Balloon Crew . . . . .
The crew of a Hot Air Balloon is essential for safe operation from launch site set-up, during flight, and recovery pack-up. The crew is in constant contact with the pilot by radio, an informs the pilot of access issues that may prevent a safe landing or the fact that a land owner has invited us to land on his property. All crew members have numerous years of chase /recovery experience an there goal is to be near the balloon upon landing.
Can Hot Air Balloons be at my event/ party . . . . .
Yes ! At your next special event consider the possibilities of offering a treat unlike any one else, please keep in mind the location of your celebration must be large enough to allow this. A Balloon tether is where the Balloon is tied/anchored to the ground with ropes and also to the balloon, we then can offer rides in which your pilot will allow the balloon to climb to approx 70 ft.....then slowly decend an land.
If you have a special occasion or event, a tethered balloon ride would be the perfect way to give many people a taste, of what a balloon flight would be like. Generally the best time for tethers is shortly after sunrise and a few hours before sunset when the winds are generally light. However, it is possible when the winds are light and varible all day long. So the time of day that we can tether the balloon is completely dependant on the weather.
Please contact for special details and rates, this is ideal for corporate or private functions
* previous celebrations/events
- science class demonstrations at high schools.
- egg drop competitions.
- football game half time events, high school prom/homecoming.
- unique fund raiser.
- outdoor wedding dinner backdrop.
- advertise your corporates logo/or sponsor info
