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At
this time, the balloon is inflated and
completely vertical, still connected to the
tie-off rope, with most of the crew providing
weight on the basket. The pilot will load
passengers and then begin to heat the balloon
to reach buoyancy. The pilot will call for
"weight on!", meaning for all crew
to place their full weight on the basket
keeping one foot on the ground at all times.
Once flight temperature is near, the pilot
will call for "light hands!", meaning
to take most of your weight off the basket,
keeping your hands on the basket in case
weight is needed again quickly. This process
make take several cycles.
When ready for launch, the pilot will release
the tie-off rope. Be sure to be cautious as
the rope may spring back toward the chase
vehicle. The pilot will ask you to walk the
balloon out as he ascends. "Light hands
on" is all that is required at this time.
Once released, be sure to wave at the pilot
and passengers.
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"Weight on!" |
