Frequently Asked Questions

How high do we go?
The average flight altitude is from tree top level to 3000 feet. The flight plan depends upon wind velocity, direction and the passenger’s desires.

What fuel does the balloon use?
The balloon is fueled by propane, which burns clean and is easy to obtain.

How does a hot air balloon fly?
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

How big is the balloon?
Balloons average in size from one passenger to sixteen passengers. The balloon is measured in cubic feet, 55,000 for a sport balloon up to 250,000 for the largest commercial balloon. A GRAPE ESCAPE HOT AIR BALLOON ADVENTURE operates balloons of all sizes

What type of training does the pilot have?
All of our pilots have a FAA certified commercial pilot’s license. A GRAPE ESCAPE HOT AIR BALLOON ADVENTURE only hires pilots who have a minimum of 1000 hours of logged flight time.

Is it safe?
In our eleven years of business, we have NEVER had an accident or injury! However, our insurance company does require that all passengers sign a release of liability waiver.

How fast do balloons fly?
A balloon is carried by the wind, and thus moves at the speed of the winds. We fly passengers in gentle breezes up to seven miles per hour.

Can you steer a balloon?
Winds determine a balloon’s direction. Balloonists can steer a balloon, to a limited extent, by adjusting the balloon’s altitude to make use of different wind speeds and directions.

Is age a factor in considering a balloon ride?
There is no minimum or maximum age restriction on partaking in a balloon ride. Our only consideration is that passengers need to be 48 inches tall, be able to stand during the entire flight and be in good overall health.

How long does a balloon ride last?
The actual flight time is approximately one hour. The entire balloon experience, including pre-flight preparation, flight and post-flight celebration, may take two to three hours.

How many people will be flying with me?
A GRAPE ESCAPE HOT AIR BALLOON ADVENTURE can accommodate passenger groups of all sizes. The average semi private flight includes 4-6 passengers at one time, although we do offer private and group flights.

What should I wear?
The attire for ballooning is casual. To maximize your enjoyment, dress appropriately for the outside air temperature. We reccommend pants, tennis shoes and a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket. Shorts, open toed and high-heeled shoes are not permitted. Please remember the balloon takes off and lands in open fields. Due to heat generated by the balloon, a hat is preferable for tall passengers.

Can we bring video or camera equipment?
A video or still camera offers the perfect opportunity to capture the spectacular scenery and memories of your balloon tour. The crew will be available before you take off to capture your picture in the basket, do not forget extra film or cassettes.

What if I am afraid of heights?
Our European designed baskets provide security and scenery with 48-inch high sides. The movement in the balloon does not affect persons who suffer from motion sickness.

Why do balloons fly in the early morning?
Winds are generally most favorable the first hours after sunrise. The sun’s uneven heating of the earth’s surface causes strong, variable winds. In the morning, it takes a few hours for the sun to heat the earth’s surface enough to generate the thermal activity that creates wind. Ideal winds are three to six miles per hour.

Can a balloon ride be given as a gift?
Yes! Prepaid flight certificates are available for your gift giving pleasure. Certificates for one person to one hundred can be purchased over the telephone with a credit card or prepaid by check or money order. The certificates are good for one year and include all the amenities of our regular balloon escapes!

What if I am celebrating a special event?
A GRAPE ESCAPE HOT AIR BALLOON ADVENTURE specializes in making every flight a special occasion. Packages are offered for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, and Proposals.

How can I participate in “A GRAPE ESCAPE BALLOON ADVENTURE”?
Contact our office at 1-800-965-2122 to reserve your requested flight date. We look forward to flying you soon!

What are your office hours?
Our office is conveniently open Monday - Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. We are closed on major holidays.

What does a flight cost?
The flight prices run from $134.00 per person for our semi-private weekday flight to $149.00 per person for our semi-private weekend flight. Private flights for two people are available on weekdays for $599.00 per couple and weekends for $799.00 per couple.

Do you take photos?
Yes, we include a souvenir photo in a picture card suitable for framing as part of our regular flight ammenities. In addition, we now offer digital photos that can be viewed and purchased in our online photo gallery.

Are we insured?
We are the only company based in the Temecula Valley to meet the current insurance regulations set forth by the Public Utilities Commission GO 120-C. This regulation mandates a minimum of $100,000 per person passenger liability with a $1,000,000 maximum liability. Our insurance company does require that all passengers sign a release of liability waiver prior to all flight activities.

Should we stay over the night before our flight?
Yes, it makes your flight much more enjoyable when you have had a good night sleep and are not concerned with commuting the morning of your flight. If you decide to spend the night there are many wonderful hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. For special rates on Temecula hotels please refer to our online hotel reservation page.