Flight Instruction 

Balloons Over The Rainbow follows a curriculum defined by the Balloon Federation of America which is based on the requirements spelled out in the FAA's Practical Test Standards for Balloons.  We use a detailed training syllabus and maintain detailed records on all facets of training from ground school, through to certification. 

What Is Required To Fly?

To receive a license to fly as a Private Pilot, limited to Free Balloon with Airborne Heater (Fancy FAA term for Hot Air Balloon), you are required to meet certain requirements.  They include ground instruction time, flight time with an instructor, solo flights, written and practical exams, as well as other requirements.  The flight time requirement for example for Private Pilot is 10 hours for example.  While the requirement is only for 10 hours, no one in St. Louis succeeds in completing their training that quickly.  You should plan on 25 to 30 hours of flight time if you have no aviation experience.

With our flight instruction programs we can provide as much or as little of the equipment as necessary, and the rates vary accordingly of course.  Our standard flight instruction rates include the aircraft and flight instructor.  Chase vehicle and fuel for the vehicle and aircraft must be purchased separately.  If you already own your own balloon, we can simply provide a flight instructor.  Crew is always the responsibility of the student to provide.  We recommend you make a lot of friends, you won't get through this without help and friends.

What If I am Already a Pilot?

If you are already a pilot in a different category and class of aircraft, such as fixed wing, single engine land, the requirements are different.  For holders of certain ratings, there is no need for a written exam for example.  Your existing license will also serve as your student license unlike someone with no prior ratings.

To schedule your first instructional flight, please call us at:

314-402-8010

We will gladly answer your questions, provide you with rates, and help you through the process to become a Lighter than Air Private Pilot. 

Balloons Over The Rainbow thanks you for the opportunity to introduce you to this most exciting adventure.  Until we meet to fly, we wish you soft landings, and gentle breezes.

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