## Can You Skydive Out of a Hot Air Balloon?
Hot air balloons and skydiving are both exhilarating activities that offer a unique perspective on the world below. But can you combine the two? The answer is yes, it is possible to skydive out of a hot air balloon. However, it is not as common as skydiving from an airplane.
### How is Skydiving from a Hot Air Balloon Different?
Skydiving from a hot air balloon is different from skydiving from an airplane in several ways:
Altitude: Hot air balloons typically ascend to lower altitudes than airplanes, usually between 500 and 2,000 feet. This means that the freefall portion of the jump is shorter and the overall experience is less intense.
Speed: Hot air balloons travel much slower than airplanes. The typical ascent speed is around 500 feet per minute, and the descent speed is around 200 feet per minute. This means that the skydiver has more time to enjoy the views and prepare for landing.
Exit: Exiting a hot air balloon is different from exiting an airplane. The skydiver must first climb over the side of the basket and then step onto a small platform. From there, they can jump or launch themselves into the air.
Landing: Landing after skydiving from a hot air balloon is also different. The skydiver must land in a field or open area, and the balloon will follow them down. The balloon will then land nearby, and the skydiver can climb back aboard.
### Safety Considerations
Skydiving from a hot air balloon is generally safe, but there are some risks involved. These risks include:
Equipment failure: The hot air balloon or skydiving equipment could fail, which could lead to serious injury or death.
Pilot error: The hot air balloon pilot could make a mistake, which could also lead to injury or death.
Weather conditions: Skydiving is not safe in all weather conditions. Strong winds, rain, or snow could make it dangerous to jump.
Medical conditions: Skydiving is not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or epilepsy, should not skydive.
### Training and Certification
To skydive from a hot air balloon, you must be trained and certified by a qualified instructor. The training typically includes:
Ground school: This covers the basics of skydiving, including equipment, safety procedures, and emergency procedures.
Practice jumps: You will make several practice jumps from a low altitude to get used to the feeling of freefall and landing.
Written exam: You must pass a written exam on skydiving knowledge.
Medical exam: You must pass a medical exam to ensure that you are healthy enough to skydive.
### Cost
The cost of skydiving from a hot air balloon varies depending on the location and the operator. However, you can expect to pay around $200-$300 for a jump.
### Conclusion
Skydiving from a hot air balloon is an unforgettable experience. It is a safe and exciting way to see the world from a new perspective. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and to be properly trained and certified before jumping.