Balloon / Your Way to the BPL
Theory
The nine BPL theory courses with learning objectives and a meaningful learning plan.
Theory provides you with the tool for making good decisions. You learn not only for the exam, but for every later ride.
Air law
Classify responsibilities, airspaces, rules and the rights of your license.
Human performance
Understand perception, strain, fatigue and decisions as part of safe driving.
Meteorology
Weather development, wind and local influences for the planned trip.
Communications
Practice clear messages, radio basics and the communication between pilot and ground crew.
Navigation
Read maps, determine positions and track the planned journey in the airspace.
Basics of ballooning
Explain the lift and behaviour of a balloon from physical contexts.
Operational procedures
Get to know preparation, normal processes and how to deal with deviations.
Flight performance and planning
Consider payload, balloon performance and the influence of environmental conditions.
Aircraft General Knowledge
casing, burner, fuel system, basket and instruments of the training balloon.
A learning rhythm that fits the practice
- Set a theme with the teacher before each training trip.
- Prepare the weather and map work yourself and discuss it together.
- After the journey, record observations in a learning protocol.
- Use exam questions to find gaps in understanding.
Sources and additional information
- EU Regulation 2018/395 – BFCL.135, subjects of theory ↗
- FAA – Balloon Flying Handbook
- EASA – learning objectives and training framework ↗
Editorial reviewed in October 2026. For your education, the current requirements of the competent authority and the agreement with the school apply.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Find your place in the basket.
Talk to a training organization about your entry.