RE/MAX Ballooning FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Your RE/MAX NorCal Balloon Team believes that the only "worthless" question is the one that doesn't get asked. If you have a question or concern, please feel free to ask our pilots.

Is the RE/MAX balloon considered an aircraft?

Yes. All of our RE/MAX hot air balloons are registered with the FAA and carry the same type of registration number (tail number) as an airplane or helicopter.

How is our RE/MAX pilot qualified?

All of our RE/MAX hot air balloon pilots are FAA licensed commercial pilots rated for hot air balloons and are individually named and registered with our insurance company.

What material is the RE/MAX balloon made of?

Our RE/MAX Hot Air Balloons are made from rip-stop nylon which is similar to the material for parachutes. One difference is that our rip-stop is coated inside to contain the hot air.

The top 40% (the red fabric) of our RE/MAX hot air balloon is made of special high strength Hyperlife nylon fabric.

What is the RE/MAX basket made of?

RE/MAX Hot air balloon baskets or gondolas are made from wicker with a weave similar to your household wicker furniture. Ours are reinforced with metal tubes and aircraft grade stainless steel cables with a padded woven wicker floor. The wicker weave is what gives the RE/MAX balloon basket it's strength and flexibility at landing.

How is the RE/MAX balloon maintained?

Our RE/MAX balloon is maintained by FAA certified balloon maintenance personnel and are required to receive an annual or 100 hour inspection, whichever comes first.

What kind of fuel does the RE/MAX hot air balloon use?

RE/MAX balloon burners use propane for fuel, just like your gas BBQ grill. The difference is that the balloon burner generates much more heat by using the liquid propane rather than the gas vapors.

Can the pilot stear the RE/MAX balloon?

The RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon is literally a "bubble in the wind." We go where the wind takes us. The pilot has control over altitude and will fly up or down seeking winds that will take us where we want to go.

Where does the RE/MAX Hot Air Balloon land?

With any hot air balloon the pilot never really knows exactly where he or she will land until they are close to being there. This is really a part of the excitement and adventure of ballooning!

If you don't know where the balloon will land, how do we get back?

Our dedicated RE/MAX support crew will follow our flight in our RE/MAX chase vehicle and meet us where we land. We'll then pack up the balloon and return to the launch site in the chase vehicle.

What should we wear?

Wear natural fabrics like cotton. Nylon warm up suits are susceptible to heat damage and can be hazardous around fire. Dress like you'll be working in the yard or walking around in a field. Good shoes such as hiking boots or tennis shoes are a must. No sandals please. Most of our flights are done in the morning at sunrise. It can be very cool when we arrive but once the sun comes up, the air warms quickly. Dress in layers so you can peel off jackets, etc. and stay comfortable.

Can we take pictures?

ABSOLUTELY!! We actually encourage you to bring your camera and take as many pictures as you like to help you remember the details of your RE/MAX ballooning adventure. Also, please feel free to share your pictures with friends and family.

How long is a RE/MAX balloon flight?

Most flights last about an hour. This may vary slightly due to availability of landing sites or unexpected changes in the weather.