Health & Safety

Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights Health & Safety Commitment

 

Health & Safety Commitment

At Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights, the health, safety, and wellbeing of our guests and staff are our highest priorities. From arrival to landing, every aspect of your experience is carefully managed to ensure a safe, professional, and enjoyable adventure. Our procedures and operational decisions follow national CASA aviation regulations and industry best practice, always ensuring a calm and reassuring environment.

Experienced Leadership

Every flight is personally overseen by our Chief Pilot, Graeme Day, who brings more than 33 years of commercial ballooning experience. Graeme is one of Queensland’s longest-serving commercial balloon pilots and is recognised as among the most experienced in Australia. Amongst his daily flight responsibilities, Graeme evaluates weather conditions, planning flight paths, piloting the balloon flight, coordinating the ground crew, and delivering clear briefings to ensure guests understand what to expect throughout their journey. His expertise guarantees that each flight is managed with precision, professionalism, and care.

Floating Images with Graeme at the helm, has been flying the skies of the Greater Brisbane region, Ipswich, Scenic Rim and Somerset countryside since 2001. But more than his resume, it’s his love of storytelling, attention to detail, and personal connection with guests that makes a flight with Floating Images unforgettable.

Whether he’s pointing out historic Ipswich landmarks, the geographical landscapes, explaining how wind currents work, or sharing tales from flying over the French Alps where he commenced his ballooning journey, Graeme makes every flight as enriching as it is serene. At Floating Images, every sunrise is more than just a view—it’s a legacy. When you book a flight, you’re not just climbing into a basket; you’re stepping into Graeme Day’s lifelong dream, powered by decades of knowledge and an unshakable love of flight.

Pilot Licensing & Skills

Australian commercial balloon pilots must meet the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) licensing standards. This includes extensive supervised flight hours, theoretical examinations, and ongoing competency checks. Pilots must demonstrate proficiency in navigation, airspace management, weather assessment, and risk mitigation. Graeme Day’s decades of experience exceed these requirements, giving guests confidence that every flight is in highly trained hands. Graeme Day & Floating Images has held a CASA approved Air Operators Certificate (AOC) since 1998.

Passenger & Staff Wellbeing

We prioritise wellbeing for both passengers and crew. Guests receive comprehensive safety briefings, including guidance on boarding, landing posture, and movement around equipment. Chief Pilot and Crew follow defined duty periods, fatigue management, and ongoing training to ensure vigilance and professionalism. This approach creates a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Equipment & Operational Safety

Every flight follows rigorous safety procedures. Pre-flight inspections cover the balloon envelope, basket, burners, fuel systems, and communications equipment. Inflation, in-flight navigation, and landing follow strict protocols. Ground crew assist in a controlled landing, and post-flight inspections ensure the balloon is fully maintained for future flights. Weather conditions are continuously monitored to determine safe operational limits.

What Guests Can Expect

Guests often ask about risks, comfort, and accessibility. Flights operate only in safe weather conditions. Passengers are advised to wear comfortable, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe shoes. Children are welcome provided they are at least 1.2 metres tall or six years of age and accompanied by an adult. We aim to make ballooning an accessible, memorable, and safe adventure for all.

For more information on Accessibility & Inclusion with Floating Images click here

What our Guests Say

“We recently went on a hot air balloon ride in Queensland, and it was one of the most magical experiences of my life! From start to finish, everything was seamless and professional. The early morning pick-up was right on time, and the staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. Watching the balloon inflate was mesmerizing — and once we were up in the air, the views were simply breathtaking.

Floating above the stunning countryside, with mist rising from the fields and kangaroos hopping below, felt surreal. The flight was incredibly smooth and peaceful, and our pilot gave interesting commentary about the landscape and history of the region.”
After landing, we were treated to a lovely champagne breakfast to top it all off. I can’t recommend this enough — it’s a must-do if you’re visiting Queensland!

Kudos to Graeme and team!!!

— Namita Singh

Would like to know more about Chief Pilot Graeme Day?

If you would like to find out more about Graeme Day’s journey into ballooning, click on the My Way episode or our website blog From the French Alps to Ipswich Skies: Graeme Day’s 30+ Year Ballooning Adventure

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions – Balloon Safety & Guest Wellbeing

  1. How safe is hot air ballooning?
    Hot air ballooning is a well-regulated activity in Australia. All flights are conducted under CASA regulations, with strict pilot licensing, equipment inspections, and operational procedures. Safety is reinforced by decades of pilot experience and highly trained crew.
  2. Who will be piloting my flight?
    All flights are led by Chief Pilot Graeme Day, who has over 33 years of experience and is one of Queensland’s longest-serving commercial balloon pilots. His expertise ensures that every flight is managed with precision, care, and professionalism.
  3. What safety checks are performed before and during the flight?
    Pre-flight inspections cover the weather conditions, balloon envelope, burners, fuel systems, and communications equipment and basket. In-flight, the pilot continuously monitors altitude, wind, and airspace. Ground crew support ensures a controlled and safe landing.
  4. What if the weather is unsuitable?
    Flights operate only in safe weather conditions. If conditions are unsuitable, your flight will be rescheduled or alternative arrangements provided.
  5. What should I wear or bring?
    Guests are advised to wear comfortable, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe shoes. All other safety equipment is provided by the crew.
  6. Are children or first-time fliers safe?
    Yes. Children are welcome if they are at least 1.2 metres tall or six years old+ and accompanied by an adult. Clear instructions, attentive support, and safe procedures ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for first-time fliers and families.
  7. How are passengers and staff wellbeing ensured?
    Passengers receive detailed briefings and hands-on guidance during boarding and landing. Staff follow defined duty limits, fatigue management, and ongoing safety training to maintain a safe and supportive environment.
  8. How does Floating Images maintain high safety standards?
    Every operational stage—from equipment checks, inflation, and flight navigation to landing—is governed by strict protocols and continuous monitoring. Our procedures, combined with highly experienced crew, ensure every flight is conducted with the highest professional standards.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn @FloatingImages for behind-the-scenes moments, sunrise skies, and Chief Pilot Graeme Day sharing his passion of ballooning.

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Limited places. One flight per day. A lifetime of stories to tell.