Balloon Flying Menu> Preparing For Flight > Chase > Pre-launch Considerations

The chase usually starts when the balloon leaves the ground, but there are preparations that must be made before inflation. For instance, the chase crew must have the keys to the chase vehicle. The last place the car keys should be is in the pocket of the balloon pilot, who is already in the air.

Another prelaunch consideration should be to get the chase vehicle clear of the launch site and ready to depart. Sometimes, the chase vehicle becomes trapped at the launch site because of spectators and vehicles blocking their way. At launch time, balloon watchers usually become enchanted and completely mesmerized by the beautiful balloons, oblivious to the efforts of the chase crews to get out and start chasing. In such situations, it is prudent to get the chase vehicle in position for the chase before the inflation begins.

Another consideration is for the pilot to remind the chase crew of the conditions and purposes of the flight. The crew does a better job if they know the approximate direction of the flight, maximum time in the air, possibility of multiple flights, known terrain hazards, and preferred landing sites. If the pilot forgets to give an appropriate briefing to the chase crew, the crew should ask. The best time to cover this briefing is before the inflation begins, as a checklist item.