How a hot air balloon works

Hot air balloons work on the simple principal that warm air rises. Warm air is lighter than cooler air and when contained in the balloon or the envelope as it’s known in the business, it produces lift and thus propelling the balloon upwards. To ensure the balloon stays in the air it must be continuously heated using gas burners.

To move the balloon upwards the pilot uses the burners to deliver regular burst of fire to maintain a stable flight. As hot air rises very little of it is lost through the bottom of the envelope.

To bring the balloon downwards there is a valve at the top of the envelope called the parachute valve. The valve is a round piece of fabric connected to a chord which is runs down the centre of the balloon to the pilot. If the pilot wishes to decent they simply pull the chord to open the valve, letting the hot air escape and bringing the balloon downwards as the hot air cools. The balloon can also be brought back down by using the burners less frequently this has a similar effect to the parachute valve bringing the balloon to a gentle decent.

For more information about ballooning check out Adventure Balloons website.