Balloon / Your Way to the BPL
Wind layers and voyage planning
How wind affects the direction of travel and why planning starts on the ground.
How wind affects the direction of travel and why planning starts on the ground.
What you will learn
How wind affects the direction of travel and why planning starts on the ground. The schematic 3D scenes make spatial relationships visible; scale, terrain and movements are simplified for explanation.
Text for reading
A free balloon moves horizontally with the surrounding air. A journey is therefore not a route that can be controlled as arbitrarily as with a motor aircraft.
Wind direction and wind speed can change with altitude. The arrows in this illustration show simplified wind layers, no current weather situation.
Balloon pilots compare weather reports and forecasts with their observations at the launch site. Also terrain, obstacles and possible turbulence are part of the assessment.
The planning considers possible travel corridors, airspace and several suitable landing areas. The ground crew needs a suitable plan for pursuit and recovery.
A different height can give a different drift. However, it does not guarantee a desired direction or the return to the starting place.
During the journey, the plan is continuously checked. If weather or landing opportunities don’t fit, early planning changes are an important part of responsible decisions.
Use this video for preparation and repetition. Practical procedures shall be carried out with a balloon instructor and in accordance with the documentation of the respective balloon.
More 3D videos
Lift and ballooning
Why a hot air balloon rises and what tasks have shell, basket and burner.
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Training and start preparation
Thus, theory, practical training and the work of the ground crew interlock.
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Land planning and decisions
Early decisions, suitable areas and clear cooperation on landing.
Watch the video →Sources and additional information
Editorial reviewed in October 2026. For your education, the current requirements of the competent authority and the agreement with the school apply.
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