you want to go up in a balloon or maybe you want to start a balloon business, but you’re not sure whether to do tethered balloon rides or untethered balloon rides. You’re not sure about the difference in mobility, the cost, the safety, or the overall experience. Don’t worry. I’m going to lay out the differences for you, and you can make an informed decision to see which one is best for you.
What is a Tethered Hot Air Balloon?
A tethered hot air balloon is a balloon that is tied down. It’s connected to the ground by ropes or cables that allow it to go up and down in a controlled way while staying anchored to a fixed point.
Here are the key points about tethered hot air balloons:
Tied Down: You secure the balloon to the ground with at least three tether lines. Usually, the lines are tied to heavy vehicles or some other type of fixed anchor.
Can’t Go Anywhere: Unlike an untethered balloon, a tethered balloon only goes up and down and stays in one place.
Height: Tethered balloons usually go up to about 50-100 feet. That’s a lot lower than an untethered balloon.
Time: Most rides in tethered balloons are short, lasting about 10-15 minutes.
Money: Tethered rides are cheaper than untethered rides and usually cost between $20 and $50 per person.
Safety: Tethered rides are considered safer because they’re in a controlled environment and don’t go very high.
What They’re Used For: Tethered balloons are used for advertising, events, fairs, festivals, and as tourist attractions.
Different Types: There are different types of tethered operations, including static display tethers, tethered rides, and night glow tethers.
Requirements: You need a clear area at least 200 feet in diameter with no obstructions and light wind conditions (6 mph or less).
If you want to go up in a balloon but don’t want to go free flying, a tethered ride is for you. It’s a more controlled and accessible experience.
What is an Untethered Hot Air Balloon?
An untethered hot air balloon is a regular hot air balloon that can go up in the air without being tied to the ground. Here are the key points about untethered hot air balloons:
Freedom: Untethered balloons can go wherever the wind takes them. They can travel long distances and cover a lot of ground.
Height: Untethered balloons can go up much higher than tethered balloons. They can easily go up thousands of feet.
Time: Flights in untethered balloons usually last 1-3 hours. You get a more complete experience and a better feel for what it’s like to be in a balloon.
Experience: Untethered balloons give you a sense of adventure and a great view as you float over different areas.
Control: Pilots can control the balloon’s altitude by turning the burner up and down. They can’t control where the balloon goes. That’s up to the wind.
Landing: You don’t know where you’re going to land. It depends on the wind and where you can safely land.
Design: Untethered balloons have an envelope (the fabric bag that holds the hot air), a basket for the passengers, and a burner that heats the air in the envelope.
How They Move: Untethered balloons go up because of the hot air and move horizontally because of the wind.
Untethered balloons are the ones you think of when you think about going up in a balloon for fun. They’re the classic balloons that float across the sky.
What is the Difference Between Tethered and Untethered Hot Air Balloons?
The main differences between tethered and untethered hot air balloons are:
Mobility: Tethered balloons are held down by ropes or cables and can only go up and down. Untethered balloons can go wherever the wind takes them.
Height: Tethered balloons usually go up about 50-100 feet. Untethered balloons can go up thousands of feet.
Time: Tethered balloons go up and down. You’re typically in the air for about 10-15 minutes. Untethered balloons go up and down and sideways. You’re in the air for 1-3 hours.
Money: Tethered balloons are cheaper. You can usually take a ride for about $20 to $50. Untethered balloons cost more. It can cost a few hundred dollars per person.
Safety: Tethered rides are safer because they’re in a controlled environment and don’t go very high. Untethered rides are a little riskier because you’re at the mercy of the weather and where the balloon lands.
Experience: Tethered rides are more controlled and limited. They’re great for people who are unsure about heights or who are flying for the first time. Untethered rides are more of an adventure. You see more and get a better sense of what it’s like to be in a balloon.
Flexibility: Untethered balloons go wherever the wind takes them. Tethered balloons are restricted to a small area.
Accessibility:You can often find tethered rides at fairs, festivals, and events. They’re easier to find and more accessible to most people.
Both rides have their advantages. It all depends on what you want to do, how much you want to spend, and how much of a ride you want
Which is Better: Tethered or Untethered Hot Air Balloon?
You can have a great time on either a tethered or untethered ride, the choice between them depends on your preferences and goals. Here’s what to expect on each:
If you’re worried about safety, cost, and time or if you don’t want to go very high, take a tethered ride.
If you want a cool adventure and see some cool stuff, take an untethered ride.
If you’ve never been up in a balloon before or you’re not sure if you’ll like it, take a tethered ride.
No matter which way you go, whether you go tethered or untethered, they’re both cool. The key is Think about what you want to do, how much you want to spend, and how much of a ride you want.
