Hot air balloons have a rich history as the earliest launch vehicles for human beings. In November 1783, the Montgolfier brothers, French papermakers, made history by conducting the world's first manned hot air balloon flight at the Chateau de Mouet in Paris, marking the birth of the hot air balloon movement.

A hot air balloon is a specialized aircraft that utilizes hot air as its buoyant gas. It consists of an envelope or airbag, with a hanging basket at the bottom to carry passengers or cargo. The air inside the envelope is heated to create buoyancy, enabling the balloon to ascend into the sky.

By regulating the amount of fuel injected into the burner, the pilot can control the ascent or descent of the balloon. Over time, hot air balloons have evolved from a mode of transportation to a beloved aviation sport. Furthermore, they are frequently employed in aerial photography and air travel.

Hot air ballooning serves multiple purposes, including aviation sports competitions, exploration, leisure activities, aerial photography, aerial work, weather detection, tourism, geological surveying and mapping, as well as popular science education for young people. As a widely popular sport, hot air ballooning is suitable for individuals of all ages.

Hot air balloons are recognized as one of the safest aircraft by the International Aeronautical Federation. When several key factors such as weather, wind speed, equipment, and fuel are carefully considered and managed, hot air balloons prove to be highly reliable.

The pilot plays a crucial role in controlling the hot air balloon's ascent and descent by skillfully manipulating the heat inside the balloon. Once the balloon reaches a specific altitude and maintains level flight, it becomes enveloped by the air mass at that altitude, moving at the same speed as the surrounding air.

Passengers aboard the gondola experience a smooth journey, without any sensation of being blown by the wind. This characteristic makes hot air balloons an ideal choice for activities such as aerial photography and sightseeing.

While flying in a hot air balloon is generally safe, it still requires an experienced pilot to navigate. The key lies in finding the appropriate wind direction and airflow to steer the balloon.

The pilot adjusts the balloon's buoyancy by heating or cooling the air inside the envelope to ascend or descend, while utilizing the airflow to change direction.

Flying in a hot air balloon offers an unforgettable experience. As the balloon gradually lifts off the ground, passengers witness the world below shrinking while the landscape expands before their eyes.

From the air, one can marvel at the bustling city or the breathtaking natural scenery, immersing themselves in a unique sense of tranquility and freedom.

The duration of a hot air balloon flight typically depends on weather conditions and the amount of fuel carried. On average, flights last between one to several hours.

During the journey, passengers can savor the diverse scenery at different altitudes while experiencing variations in air temperature and wind speed. In regions with suitable weather conditions, hot air balloon festivals are organized, attracting hundreds of balloons and spectators.

In addition to regular hot air balloon flights, there are also thrilling hot air balloon sports. Hot air balloon racing, for instance, is a highly popular activity.

Contestants must adjust their flight path according to the airflow and the position of the target point, striving to reach the designated target within a specified time frame.

This competitive aspect of hot air ballooning presents pilots with additional challenges and opportunities to showcase their flying skills.

Moreover, nighttime hot air balloon shows provide a mesmerizing experience. As darkness descends, hot air balloons illuminate the night sky, their colorful lights flickering in the darkness. This magical display of brilliant lights against the backdrop of the balloons creates a dreamlike atmosphere, captivating all who witness it.