Balloon pilot

Before starting the practical part of the balloon pilot training, it is necessary to complete the theoretical knowledge instruction. Theoretical ground school takes approximately 70 - 80 hours. It is well distributed around the general aviation subjects as well as the balloon-specific and hot-air balloon specific subjects. Theory is usually provided as a instructor-led group teaching. It can however be provided on the individual basis.

Once you are able to handle the hot-air balloon in the air, you will move to the other phase, which is to safely take-off, land as well as to operate the hot-air balloon  in low heights. Advanced phase of the BPL training simply means the Take-offs, Landings and operation in low height.
There are different kinds of the approach techniques and you will master them all. The operation in the low height and the response to the emergencies is integrated into almost each of the exercises to prepare you well for a possible failure or emergency. The flight training is continued with the "fine tuning" of the the flying technique in order to consolidate your pilot skills.

One of the most exciting moments of the entire balloon pilot training is your first solo flight. Don't worry, we won't let you kill yourself :)  We will definitely make sure you are capable to complete the solo flights. This is going to be for sure one of your lifelong memorable moments. There is no longer an instructor in the basket who would correct your mistakes. From takeoff to landing, it's all up to you. This moment usually comes at the end of your balloon pilot training - so after around 15 hours of flight training. The first solo flight usually takes a bit more than half an hour and is one of the mandatory requirements to issue your Balloon Pilot Licence.

 Before you become a balloon pilot and get your balloon pilot licence, you need to pass the practical test so-called licence skill test with an authorised person called Flight Examiner. The BPL skill test is one flight with an examiner and takes approximately 60 minutes. The BPL skill test contains the profile of all exercises you have been trained during your balloon pilot training. Flight Examiner will ensure that during your pilot training you gained all the skills required to become a balloon pilot.
The skill test consists of a standard flight. It all starts with the proper balloon layout, briefing, cold and hot inflation. It is continued with the take-off, climbs, descends and navigation test. Examiner will simulate some emergency situations which you will have to respond to. Skill test is completed by descend, approach to land and landing itself.
Once you successfully pass the skill test you become a balloon pilot holding the Balloon Pilot Licence with privileges to operate in so-caled Hot-air balloon class (balloons with burners) and in the so-called Group A of the hot-air balloons. In other words you will be allowed to fly the hot-air balloon envelopes up to the volume of the 3500m³