History of Ballooning

In 1782, brothers Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier created the first hot air balloon. These early flights were part of a grand experiment, where they used hot air to lift a large balloon into the sky. The world watched in awe as the Montgolfiers defied gravity for the first time, launching a new era in human exploration. But the adventure didn’t end with their successful test flights.

Fun Fact: The Montgolfiers didn’t actually realize the full potential of hot air itself. They believed it was the smoke created by the fire, rather than the heat, that caused the balloon to rise! Nevertheless, their discovery set the stage for future advancements in ballooning.

In June 1783, the Montgolfiers made history again with their first manned flight, which lifted a sheep, a duck, and a rooster into the sky. While humans didn’t yet have the courage to join the animals in flight, the experiment proved the idea was sound. However, it wasn’t until later that year, when Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and François Laurent d’Arlandes became the first human passengers in a hot air balloon, that ballooning truly took off—literally

Image credits – Shawn Braley Illustration

While the Montgolfier brothers are often credited with the birth of ballooning, the modern hot air balloon we know today wouldn’t have been possible without the invention of the gas burner. Early balloons relied on open flames to heat the air, but these systems were far from reliable, especially as ballooning became a popular form of adventure and travel.

In the mid-19th century, ballooning pioneers like Thomas Baldwin and Ed Yost began experimenting with gas burners, which significantly improved the control and safety of balloon flights. These burners allowed for greater control over the temperature inside the balloon, making long-distance flights and commercial ballooning a reality.

The birth of the gas burner also led to ballooning’s role in military reconnaissance during World War I. Balloons became crucial for spotting enemy positions and directing artillery. But as thrilling as these flights were, it wasn’t long before ballooning found its true purpose as an adventure sport and activity, beloved by thrill-seekers and romantics alike.

Fun Fact: Imagine flying above the battlefield! Balloons played a critical role in military reconnaissance during World War I. Soldiers would ascend into the skies to spot enemy positions—talk about a lofty job!

Here at Balloon Aloft, we carry on this incredible history with pride. The company’s name is actually a tribute to the old days of ballooning. Back when balloons were first being launched, balloon operators would shout “Balloon Aloft!” as the balloon took flight. It was a call to announce to everyone that the adventure had begun, a tradition that we continue to honor with every flight.

While the early days of ballooning were filled with scientific experimentation, military usage, and the bravery of adventurers, modern hot air ballooning is all about the experience. Today’s balloon flights offer breathtaking views, peaceful moments of reflection, and a sense of wonder that’s truly unique.

At Balloon Aloft, we continue to embrace the essence of what makes ballooning so special—the freedom, the serenity, and the connection to something bigger than ourselves. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, a romantic flight, or seeking adventure with family and friends, there’s something magical about soaring above the earth in a balloon.

Fun Fact: Balloon Aloft have the experience and expertise to make your ballooning adventure perfect because Balloon Aloft pioneered hot air ballooning in Australia, launching the country’s very first commercial flights back in 1980.