Any balloonist about.... Passed the pilots exams a few years ago, have 17 hours flying experience but never checked out (ie went solo and got the pilots licence. Unfortunately I have no balloon. Would like to get back intoi it, crewing or getting the licence.

One of my boss's neighbours rents hot air balloons or something like that.

Shall I get this person's details for you?

Ex Balloonist here but check out Chateau D'Oex Balloon Festival in January about 20th - 29th. It is worth a visit, I have been for several weeks over past years, will probably pay a visit again next year, weather dependant.

Hi,

I'm Richard, a balloonist since 1981, and also a BBAC (British Balloon & Airship Club) instructor. I live in Altendorf, ca. 20Km east of Zürich and have 4 balloons here in Switzerland, 3 of which are airworthy. I'm the Lindstrand agent in Switzerland. Unfortunately I can't instruct towards a Swiss license because of Swiss rules, but can of course instruct people towards an English license. Since I really enjoy teaching folks to fly balloons, this is very frustrating, so let's see if we can work something out.

Send me a private message if you are still interested.

Richard

Well, I found an old thread to revive for my question...

Not a balloonist at all, but quite fancy seeing the illuminated balloons on Friday evening (I think). Anyone got any tips, such as a good place to view from, or some out-of-the-way simple place to stay that may not be full yet...

There's an old church on a hill overlooking the take off field. That's a great place to watch from.




Some of the balloons fly right over this hill (you can see the church spire)




More photos

If you're mailing about the Night Glow at Ch'âteau d'Oex, the balloons are always arranged in a long, straight line high on the hill behind the village. You can stand just about anywhere in the village that has a clear line-of-sight to the hill and have a great view. If I don't have a balloon, I usually stand near a bar! The Glow starts after dark. Check the online program to be sure which evening it is.

Just don't leave it too late driving there. It attracts thousands, and congestion and parking is a nightmare. You may wish to consider coming by train, or even parking a few stations away and completing by train.

RS

Acquainted with a woman whose husband runs a hot-air-balloon-rides business. Anyone interested, please PM me for contact.

If you charter the whole human-containing 'basket', you pay about CHF1,200.
Not a bad way to throw an expensive and exclusive party.

They had a load of ballons taking off last sunday at Satell (ski resort just off Zug). Lovely day for it although I think you guys are a bit mad to go that high in Wicker Basket