Fly Safe

Balloon Safety Guide

Everything you need to do — and the correct landing position to take — for a calm, safe and unforgettable flight over Cappadocia.

Read Before You Fly

A Safe Flight Is a Shared Responsibility

Ballooning is one of the safest forms of aviation — and it stays that way because our certified pilots and our guests follow a few simple rules together. Take five minutes to read this guide before your sunrise flight. Knowing what to expect makes the experience calmer, smoother and far more enjoyable.

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Step 1

Before You Step Into the Basket

A little preparation the night before means a relaxed, worry-free morning.

Wear Flat, Closed Shoes

Trainers or hiking shoes are ideal. The landing field can be uneven and slightly dusty — avoid heels and open sandals.

Dress in Layers

Mornings are cool on the ground but warm under the burner. Layers let you adjust comfortably during the flight.

Eat Light & Stay Hydrated

Have a small breakfast and a little water. A balloon flight is smooth, but an empty stomach can make anyone light-headed.

Tell Us About Health Conditions

Pregnancy, recent surgery, heart or mobility concerns? Let your pilot know in advance so we can look after you properly.

Secure Your Camera

Use a neck or wrist strap. Loose phones and cameras can be dropped — and never use a selfie stick inside the basket.

Listen to the Briefing

Your pilot gives a short safety briefing before boarding. Please give it your full attention — it covers everything below.

Step 2

The Golden Rules Inside the Basket

Keep these in mind from take-off to touchdown.

Please Do

  • Follow every instruction from your pilot, immediately and calmly.
  • Hold the rope handles inside the basket, especially for take-off and landing.
  • Keep your weight evenly distributed and stay where the pilot positions you.
  • Keep arms, cameras and hands inside the basket at all times.
  • Stay relaxed — talk quietly, enjoy the view and breathe.

Please Don't

  • Don't climb, sit or lean on the basket edge — ever.
  • Don't smoke or use any flame near the balloon or fuel.
  • Don't jump or move suddenly, especially during landing.
  • Don't throw anything out of the basket.
  • Don't get out at landing until the pilot clearly says it is safe.
Step 3 · The Most Important Part

The Correct Landing Position

Most landings are soft and gentle. But wind can make the basket tip or drag slightly on touchdown, so every passenger takes the same brace position. Your pilot will call out “Landing positions!” about a minute before touchdown.

DIRECTION OF TRAVEL

Take This Position

  1. 1
    Stand & face the direction of travel. If the basket tips on landing, you will be pushed safely into the basket, not thrown out.
  2. 2
    Bend your knees slightly. Keep them soft and springy to absorb the touchdown — never lock them straight.
  3. 3
    Grip the rope handles firmly with both hands. Use the handles inside the basket, not the top rim.
  4. 4
    Keep your back to the front wall and tuck in. Stay low and compact, facing forward.
  5. 5
    Hold the position and stay still until the pilot says the balloon has fully stopped and it is safe to stand up.

Bend the Knees

Soft, springy legs absorb the touchdown.

Grip the Handles

Both hands on the inner rope handles.

Stay Inside

Don't get out until the pilot says so.

Good to Know

What Your Pilot Might Call Out

These short commands keep everyone coordinated. Respond to them calmly and quickly.

“Hold on!”

Grip the rope handles — usually just before take-off or a quick adjustment.

“Landing positions!”

Take the full brace position shown above and face the direction of travel.

“Stay down!”

Keep low and hold tight — the basket may slide or tip gently before it stops.

“Stand by to get out.”

The balloon has stopped. Wait for the go-ahead, then step out one at a time.

Safety Questions

Balloon Safety FAQs

Yes. Ballooning is one of the safest forms of aviation. Every Güvercin Balloons pilot is SHGM-certified, all passengers are fully insured, and we never fly in unsafe conditions. The daily go/no-go decision is made after a strict weather review at around 04:00.

The vast majority of landings are soft and gentle. Occasionally, wind can make the basket tip or slide a little on touchdown — which is exactly why everyone takes the brace position. As long as you follow your pilot, landings are safe and easy.

Face the direction of travel, bend your knees slightly, grip the rope handles inside the basket with both hands, keep your back toward the front wall, and hold that position until the pilot confirms it is safe to stand up and get out.

Children who are tall enough to hold the rope handles and stand safely in the basket (generally around 6 years and older) are welcome. They must be able to follow the pilot's instructions. Please contact us in advance for younger children.

Tell your pilot — they do this every day and will reassure you. Balloon flight is remarkably smooth and quiet. Hold a rope handle, breathe slowly, and focus on the horizon. Most nervous first-timers end the flight wanting to go again.

Want to See the Paperwork?

Our pilot licences, operator certificate, insurance and airworthiness documents are all current and available on request.

View Certificates & Licences

Ready for a Safe, Unforgettable Sunrise?

Now you know the rules — let our certified pilots take care of the rest.