Hot-air balloon flight operator

Tourists, couples, families and groups marking birthdays, anniversaries and proposals, plus corporate groups and accommodation partners.

A price per passenger per flight, with extras such as champagne breakfasts, photo packages and private charters.

• Commercial balloon pilot qualification (or a partner who holds one)
• Weather judgement and safety discipline
• Customer service and hosting
• Managing a small crew and equipment

• Check CASA requirements for commercial passenger balloon flights, including operator approval, pilot licensing and maintenance
• Aviation and passenger liability insurance is specialised and can be costly, so get quotes early
• Check landholder permission and any permits for launch and landing sites
• Weather cancellations make income uneven, so plan cash flow and your refund policy under Australian Consumer Law
• Check workers compensation requirements in your state once you hire crew
• Equipment is a large upfront outlay, so consider buying second-hand or starting by working for an established operator

Startup costs are typically around $120,000 to $400,000, depending on the balloon, whether it is second-hand, and your insurance and crew setup. The balloon is a large upfront outlay, so some people start by working for an established operator first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on how many flights you run and how many bookings you win. Weather cancellations make income uneven, so plan your cash flow and your refund policy under Australian Consumer Law.

Check CASA requirements for commercial passenger balloon flights, including operator approval, pilot licensing and maintenance. Also get insurance quotes early, check landholder permission and any permits for launch and landing sites, and check workers compensation once you hire crew.