Balloon safety
> Mike Fleury of Fleur de Tucson Balloon Tours says passengers should ask more than "How much?" when choosing a balloon company.
Here are some basic questions he recommends:
Q: What is the pilot's experience?
A: Commercial licenses require a minimum of 35 hours flight time, but Mike suggests you fly with a pilot who has at least 100 hours. "Most insurance companies won't back a commercial pilot with less time than that," he adds.
Q: Have they ever had an accident?
A: Mike warns there are "incidents" and there are "accidents," and both should be reported to the Federal Aviation Administration, which regulates the balloon industry.
Q: What is the company's level of insurance?
People are also reading…
A: Most carry a minimum of $1 million in coverage.
"This is information you should know before you fly," Mike says.
IF YOU GO
> Rides cost from $180 to $195 per adult and $140 to $160 for children 12 and under. Go to www.fleur detucson. net or call 529-1025 for information.
