Recently I got an opportunity to fly in a hot air balloon over Dambulla. Having traveled only in mechanized aircraft such as aeroplanes and helicopters before, this was a different and an interesting experience for me. Hot air balloons are one of the simplest modes of flight and it is because of this simplicity that it is such a unique and wonderful experience.
The method it works cannot be simpler, The air in the balloon is heated using a gas burner, Hot air is less denser than the surrounding air, so it creates lift. You can only control the force of lift in a hot air balloon, that is by varying the heat given to the air. Where you go is out of your control. It depends on the direction the wind blows. This is why hot air ballooning is considered a sport rather than a mode of transport.
Balloon flights are usually scheduled early in the morning because the air is still and calm at that time. During later hours of the day the increasing temperatures give rise to thermals-columns of rising air that can interfere with the balloon and make maneuvering difficult. (Interestingly, thermals that hinder a balloon flight are the essential ingredient in gliding(which I'm awaiting to try out) where the force required to stay airborne is provided by thermals.) Therefore the morning is the best time for ballooning, besides the sunrise seen from a balloon is a sight to behold..
Once airborne the balloon drifts away until you decide to land. Landing is done by allowing the heated air to escape by opening a vent at the top of the balloon by means of ropes and cables. Just like any other air sport, a smooth landing demands skill and practice.
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| heating the air to inflate |
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| straightening the balloon |
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| just before takeoff |
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| sunrise |
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| the gas burner |
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| shadow of the balloon |
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| opening the vent to land |
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