Hot air ballooning is an exciting new adventure, and we know that you may have many questions before making a reservation or before you fly with us. If you do not find an answer to your question, please feel free to contact our Temecula office for personal assistance at 951-699-9987.
There are many things to consider when choosing a company with whom to fly in a hot air balloon. Is the company professional? What is their safety record? Are the pilots, crew and office staff experienced and friendly? What is included in the price, and what are their booking policies? Our vehicles are regulated by the PUC and we meet or exceed all state transportation guidelines TCP #11964-C. We focus on a professional and safe operation which includes a knowledgeable reservation staff, experienced pilots and crew and a perfect safety record. We operate all hot air balloon flights that we book. Be wary of companies that sell gift certificates or reserve flights they do not operate. Our Temecula balloon rides include a 60-75 minute flight, private label champagne, orange juice, and souvenir certificate of flight.. We collect payment on the date that you fly, and if the hot air balloon ride is canceled due to inclement weather there is never a charge. If you have any additional questions about our company please feel free to contact our office.
The hot air balloon burners are fueled by propane, which burns clean and is easy to obtain.
Hot air balloons operate through the basic principles of gravity and heat transfer. As air inside the balloon is heated, it rises. As the air inside the balloon cools, it descends. To make the balloon fly, an inflator fan fills it with air, which is then heated.
Hot air balloons average in size from one passenger to twenty passengers. When inflated a hot air balloon is as tall as a seven story building. Hot air balloons are measured in cubic feet, 55,000 for a sport balloon up to 300,000 for the largest commercial balloon. A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure operates hot air balloons of all sizes.
All of our hot air balloon pilots have an FAA certified commercial pilot’s license, with a lighter than air certificate. In addition, several of our pilots also fly fixed winged aircraft. A Grape Escape Hot Air Balloon Adventure only hires pilots who have a minimum of 1000 hours of logged flight time.
Winds determine a hot air balloon’s direction. Balloon pilots can steer a balloon, to a limited extent, by adjusting the balloon’s altitude to make use of different wind speeds and directions.
There is no minimum or maximum age restriction on riding in a hot air balloon. Our only consideration is that passengers need to be 48 inches tall, in good health, be able to stand during the entire flight and climb in and out of the basket.
A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure can accommodate passenger groups of all sizes. The average shared Temecula wine country flight includes 8-16 passengers at one time. If you are looking for something more romantic, we offer private sweetheart flights for two. Private charter flights for other size groups can be arranged by calling us 951-699-9987
The attire for hot air ballooning is casual. We take off and land in open fields. To maximize your enjoyment, dress appropriately for the season, using casual active wear and closed sport shoes. Bring a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket. Shorts, open toed and high heeled shoes are not allowed. Due to heat generated by the hot air balloon's propane burners, a hat is preferable for tall passengers.
A video or camera offers the perfect opportunity to capture the spectacular scenery and memories of your hot air balloon tour. The crew will be available before you take off to take your picture in the basket.
Hot air balloons move slowly through the air and many passengers who are afraid of heights have reported that the flight wasn't scary at all. Our European designed baskets provide security and scenery with 48 inch high sides, so riders do not feel they could fall out. The movement in the balloon is slight and does not affect persons who suffer from motion sickness.
A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure specializes in making every hot air balloon flight a special occasion. To help you make your Birthday, Anniversary or Proposal special, we offer a complimentary basket banner. To help make the day even more special, individually packaged bundtlets from Nothing Bundt Cakes are available for a nominal charge.
Reservationists are available Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (PT) to answer any questions or to reserve a hot air balloon ride. You can call us at 951-699-9987. Online reservations are always available 24 hours a day.
Yes, a hot air balloon is the perfect outdoor flying billboard. A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure specializes in customizing an advertising package to meet your company’s individual goals from local to nationwide programs. Some of our current advertisers include Wilson Creek Winery, Pechanga Resort & Casino,Temecula Creek Inn, Europa Village Winery and Robert Renzoni Winery. For information regarding how your company can get “in the air” contact Cherise at 951-699-9987.
Yes, our hot air balloons have been featured on the KTLA morning news, FOX morning news, The History Channel, The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Bachelorette, Millionaire Matchmaker, Parks and Recreation and the movie “The Ugly Truth” and numerous commercials and music videos.
Check availability and make a reservation online, or contact our office Monday – Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (PT) at 951-699-9987 to reserve your requested flight date. We look forward to flying you soon!
