so i'm almost ready to start loading my 'dream stream,
same boat i'm sure as the rest of my fellow 'streamers...
sifted the clothes down to two racks, and several small containers.
need to travel light for this Gas Fiesta,
robbing ancient indian tombs requires extra closet space...
and need to haul extra ammo for the sunday drink n greet...
i have 14 folks down for the side trip. remember sun screen, a shovel, bucket, wire mesh screen, and a bagged lunch. bring ur own beer, bottled water supplied.
Balloon pilots need a commercial pilot's license (fixed-wing). They must have at least 35 hours of flight instruction, attend ground school for basic aviation training, pass a written test for hot-air balloons and have a flight check from a Federal Aviation Administration official.
According to the FAA, balloons must meet air-traffic control requirements if they are in a controlled air-space, and pilots must have radio contact with controllers.
There are no official safety requirements for passengers, but passengers should know with whom they're flying and their qualifications.
Accidents are rare, especially in the Northwest. The only serious injuries for the area -- found in a check of National Transportation Safety Board balloon accident reports back to 1984 -- were a broken leg and a broken ankle, both from rough landings.
Hot air balloons don't fly in the rain because balloon heat can cause water to boil atop the balloon, and boiling water destroys the fabric.
Area balloon operators can carry from two to 10 passengers at a time, depending on balloon size.
Children under 5 usually aren't allowed.
Ballooning is not a silent sport. There are some quiet moments, but those burners are noisy.
Balloonists dress like hikers: Pants, sturdy flat shoes and layers of shirt, sweater, jacket, for example. Carry cameras and lots of film.
"in the event of rain, rally goer persons we be directed to the nearest bowling alley for a couple of games, followed by the three hour dive cowboy bar tour, and then the all important loose all the kids milk money at the indian casino of your own choosin kinda thingie, the best i can remember"...
QUOTE
I'm heading to New Mexico come heck or high water...
just wondering.
Thanks.
Damp Bam in CA UNQUOTE
Ms soggy bottom Bam,
Since Mr Kevbo has graciously allowed me the spot on the beach under the New Mexico state tree near the docks, reataurant(take-out or dine-in), with the prevailing wind favorable to no port-a-potty admingling of air, I am bringing the USS SCREAMING EAGLE, lest you had forgotten this early thread item...there should be room for all...mike