Hot-air balloon flight operator

Tourists, couples, families, gift buyers and event hosts, usually booking by the seat or as a private flight.

A price per passenger or per private booking, plus gift vouchers, photo packages and add-ons. Income is concentrated in the warmer months when flying conditions are best.

• Pilot qualification for balloons, or a partner who has it
• Weather judgement and safety discipline
• Customer service and managing a ground crew

• Check Transport Canada rules on pilot licensing, aircraft registration, airworthiness and commercial operating approval before taking any bookings
• Aviation insurance for passengers and the aircraft is a major cost, so get quotes early
• You need permission from landowners for launch and landing sites, so check local rules
• Weather causes frequent cancellations and short seasons in many provinces, so plan your cash flow
• Safety is the main risk, so keep up maintenance, inspections and crew training
• Check WCB/WSIB requirements once you hire crew

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $40,000 to $120,000, depending on the balloon, equipment and crew setup. Aviation insurance for passengers and the aircraft is a major cost, so the idea suggests getting quotes early.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on how many flights you run and how you price seats and private flights. Weather cancellations and short seasons in many provinces affect cash flow.

Check Transport Canada rules on pilot licensing, aircraft registration, airworthiness and commercial operating approval before taking bookings. Also check aviation insurance, landowner permission for launch and landing sites, local rules, and WCB or WSIB requirements once you hire crew.