Everything you need to do — and the correct landing position to take — for a calm, safe and unforgettable flight over Cappadocia.
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.
A little preparation the night before means a relaxed, worry-free morning.
Trainers or hiking shoes are ideal. The landing field can be uneven and slightly dusty — avoid heels and open sandals.
Mornings are cool on the ground but warm under the burner. Layers let you adjust comfortably during the flight.
Have a small breakfast and a little water. A balloon flight is smooth, but an empty stomach can make anyone light-headed.
Pregnancy, recent surgery, heart or mobility concerns? Let your pilot know in advance so we can look after you properly.
Use a neck or wrist strap. Loose phones and cameras can be dropped — and never use a selfie stick inside the basket.
Your pilot gives a short safety briefing before boarding. Please give it your full attention — it covers everything below.
Keep these in mind from take-off to touchdown.
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.
Soft, springy legs absorb the touchdown.
Both hands on the inner rope handles.
Don't get out until the pilot says so.
These short commands keep everyone coordinated. Respond to them calmly and quickly.
Grip the rope handles — usually just before take-off or a quick adjustment.
Take the full brace position shown above and face the direction of travel.
Keep low and hold tight — the basket may slide or tip gently before it stops.
The balloon has stopped. Wait for the go-ahead, then step out one at a time.
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.
Our pilot licences, operator certificate, insurance and airworthiness documents are all current and available on request.
Now you know the rules — let our certified pilots take care of the rest.