PREFACE
This Balloon Flying Handbook introduces the basic pilot knowledge and skills that are essential for
piloting balloons. It introduces pilots to the broad spectrum of knowledge that will be needed as they
progress in their pilot training. This handbook is for student pilots, as well as those pursuing more advanced
pilot certificates.
Student pilots learning to fly balloons, certificated pilots preparing for additional balloon ratings or
who desire to improve their flying proficiency and aeronautical knowledge, and commercial balloon pilots
teaching balloon students how to fly should find this handbook helpful. This book introduces the prospective
pilot to the realm of balloon flight and provides information and guidance to all balloon pilots in the
performance of various balloon maneuvers and procedures.
This handbook conforms to pilot training and certification concepts established by the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA). There are different ways of teaching, as well as performing flight procedures and
maneuvers, and many variations in the explanations of aerodynamic theories and principles. This handbook
adopts a selective method and concept to flying balloons. The discussions and explanations reflect the most
commonly used practices and principles. Occasionally, the word must or similar language is used where the
desired action is deemed critical. The use of such language is not intended to add to, interpret, or relieve a
duty imposed by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR).
It is essential for persons using this handbook to also become familiar with and apply the pertinent
parts of 14 CFR and the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM). Performance standards for demonstrating
competence required for pilot certification are prescribed in the appropriate balloon practical test standard.
The FAA gratefully acknowledges Brent Stockwell, Christine Kalakuka, and the Balloon Publishing
Company for giving permission to use parts of their book entitled "How to Fly a Balloon."
The current Flight Standards Service airman training and testing material, and subject matter
knowledge codes for all airman certificates and ratings can be obtained from the Regulatory Support Division,
AFS-600, home page on the Internet.
The Regulatory Support Division's comments regarding this handbook should be sent to U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal
Aviation Administration, Airman Testing Standards Branch, AFS-630, P.O. Box 25082, Oklahoma City,
OK 73125.
This handbook can be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office (GPO), Washington, DC 20402-9325, or from U.S. Government Bookstores located in major cities
throughout the United States.
AC 00-2, Advisory Circular Checklist, transmits the current status of FAA
advisory circulars and other flight information and publications. This
checklist is free of charge and may be obtained by sending a request to U.S.
Department of Transportation, Subsequent Distribution Office, SVC-121.23,
Ardmore East Business Center, 3341 Q 75th Avenue, Landover, MD 20785. |
