Fantasy Balloons proudly operates one of the best known hot air balloons in Colorado, and boasts one of the best pilots in the country. Gery deKoevend, the pilot in command, has been flying for over 35 years, and has extensive experience flying near and over mountains.
A Little History on Hot Air Balloons
Hot air ballooning has a long and "colorful" history, both in America and in other countries. The Montgolfier brothers from France are considered the first hot air balloonists. They began to fly balloons in France in 1783, when Benjamin Franklin was the US ambassador to France. They first sent up animals that returned safely to earth. The first manned flight was in November 1783.
Â
Hot air balloon have been used in several wars over the centuries, most often for reconnaissance.
Â
Hot air balloon flights are described as "peaceful", "floating" and other wonder words. Because the balloon is moving with the wind, there is little sensation of movement and little wind. Even in winter, it is not usually exceptionally cold up in the balloon.
