Castle View Balloons - Common Questions

Q. Can you find lower rates for balloon rides?

A. Yes, probably somewhere...but this may be one of the activities in life where it's prudent to avoid the "low bidder"...for obvious reasons.

Q. What is the source of the name, 'Castle View'?

A. Our home in Cheshire, CT, a frequent launch site, has a clear view of the Hubbard Park castle in nearby Meriden.

Q. How did our balloons, Michael's Rainbow II & III, get their names?

A. Our three year old grandson, Michael, named our first balloon Grandpa's Rainbow. When we ordered our new Cameron balloon, we maintained the primary colors of the rainbow. In December of 1999, following the tragic death of young Michael, we renamed our balloon Michael's Rainbow in his memory. Our 2001 Lindstrand & 2004 Aerostar balloons were naturally christened Michael's Rainbow II & III.

Q. After the flight, how do we get back to the launch site?

A. Our chase vehicle remains in constant radio and visual contact with the balloon. After landing and an 'all hands on deck' packing of the balloon and basket, you will be driven back to the launch site.

Q. How long will the flight take?

A. Approximately three hours:

	1/2 hour for pre-flight briefing, set-up and launch. Note: If sunrise is 6:00 AM, we will start our set-up at 5:30 AM.
	1 hour for the ride.
	1/2 hour to pack up.
	1 hour for the ride back and champagne celebration.

Q. When are the flight times?

A. We fly within two hours of sunrise. The winds normally remain calm within this time frame. Because morning weather is much more predictable than evening, we do not make sunset flights.

Q. What should I wear and bring?

A. Dress seasonably with comfortable, casual clothing. Footwear must be sturdy and flat-soled. Water-proof boots or hiking shoes are a good option. Long pants are also recommended. The temperature in flight will be about the same as on the ground. Bring your sunglasses, baseball cap and camera with extra film.

Q. How rough are the landings?

A. All pilots pride themselves in their ability to land their craft gently. However, on occasion some weather changes occur during the flight and may result in a less than smooth landing. These types of landings are explained in greater detail in the Waiver of Liability. Carry-on equipment not properly secured and protected could be damaged in a bumpy landing.

Q. Where is Cheshire, CT?

A. See Contact page.

Last Updated: 01/08/2006