This article describes the Australian Airspace classification system, the services provided to aircraft operating in each airspace class and the associated operating restrictions or requirements for each class.
Recognising a Temperature Inversion
In the troposhere temperature tends to decrease as height increases. In the theoretical International Standard Atmosphere the temperature decrease or ‘lapse rate’ is defined as 1.98oC per 1000 feet gain in altitude. Like most things theoretical this doesn’t always happen in practice.
Pibals
Pibals are small helium filled balloons that balloon pilots use to help assess the winds aloft. By knowing the empty weight of the balloon and its inflated diameter you can use the table below to estimate a pibals ascent rate.
Crew Training Manual
Our crew training manual is widely used throughout Australia as a reference work for training new crew. First published in 1995 it is currently undergoing a major update. The old version can be downloaded using the link below but make sure that you check back soon to obtain the new version which is expected by […]
How Hot Air Balloons Fly
How hot air balloons fly: because the hot air inside the balloon is less dense than the air outside of the balloon. The principle is really very simple; hot air rises and cold air sinks.
Balloon Safety Equipment
A hot air balloon is a relatively simple craft. To help ensure the safety of pilot and passengers, a hot air balloon may carry several pieces of safety equipment.
