Our balloon flight over Norwich would launch from Wensum valley golf club in Taverham. The wind was a light breeze coming from the northwest. As always a detailed and comprehensive weather forecast had been obtained prior to meeting our passengers. Once physically on site we must establish an exact track. This is very simply done by releasing a black helium balloon then taking a compass bearing of it. With that bearing we can then plot our flight; today our balloon flight would be to directly over the city centre of Norwich. Due to the proximity of the airport, we liaise closely with air traffic control and await their permission to launch. At 08.05 Hrs we receive the message that we are’ Good to Go’
The launch was very gentle and we climbed above Norwich as it started to awake. The visabily was excellent as we ascend the city seems to roll gently beneath us. The broads all in full view simmering in the morning’s sunshine. Our passengers had a wonderful photo opportunity as we over flew the forum, castle and cathedral. We exit the city over county hall and we are now in open country. Hard to believe we have been in the air for over an hour, time to look for a suitable field to land. Now in open countryside we descend south of Bramerton. We landed in a stubble field in the parish of Alpington. What a wonderful start to the day!
Hi Robert,
Can I just say a big “thank you” to you and your splendid team, both from me, a mere 69 years old and from the lady who came with me, Joan – a very sprightly 90. The professionalism shown by you and the team was exemplary, and we could not have had a better morning to fly a hot air balloon over Norwich. We felt safe at all times, even when we regained contact with terra firma, thanks to your briefing. The scenery was magnificent. I am currently going through my photographs and will send you a few once they have been edited. Many thanks again. I think a revisit is a must for any new significant birthdays.
Bill Sibley