missann1320 0 #1 May 11, 2007 Does anyone know any hot air balloon companies in the Napa Valley who allow us to jump? I've contact 2 already and they said noway... But how freaking cool would that be to jump at dawn or dusk over looking wine country?!Smile! http://www.399FirstDates.com Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TallGuy 0 #2 May 11, 2007 In my 5 years as a jumper in Northern California I have never heard anyone claim to have done so. I have heard that if you coordinate it early you can get the balloon pilots that launch out of Skydance in Davis, CA to take you up but to the best of my knowledge nobody has done that either. I'd say keep calling around. Here are some of the issues you should be aware of. 1. Balloon safety. I have heard that when a balloon loses the weight of the jumper something happens that its shape gets distorted and somethow this poses a potential threat. (not sure how, but I'm not a balloon pilot). Apparently this can be offset by having the burners on during the jump . I'm not sure if all balloon pilots are savvy to this. I might be just talking out of my ass. "Burner" Born who flies his balloon "High and Dry" for Skydive AZ could give you more detail. 2. Vineyards = grape stakes = big owie Choose where you are jumping out carefully. 3. Trespassing. Balloons go where the wind takes them. Farmer McNasty may not appreciate your presence on his property. Balloons commonly land in such areas so hopefully the pilot will have foreknowledge of the area you'll be exiting over. 4. Chase Vehicle. You will need to coordinate with someone on the ground who knows how to get around the area to pick you up. Balloons always have one so it "shouldn't" be a big problem Try to convince the balloon business that if they are willing to accommodate you. You may be able to introduce them to a whole new niche market. If you succeed let us know. We'd love to play too. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
missann1320 0 #3 May 11, 2007 How fabulous are you!! Thank you for the details and the laugh over Mr. Farmer McNasty (nice touch)! I jumped Burners set up a few months ago so I can understand the concern and the danger for me once I jump out... I'll keep using the charm to convince some pilots to take me out but still keep those lovely points in mind... Thanks again :-)Smile! http://www.399FirstDates.com Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
