What are the differences between gas and hot air balloons?

A gas balloon is completely enclosed and is filled with helium or hydrogen. A hot air balloon gets its lift from heating the air within.

Hot air balloon flights usually last about an hour, while gas balloon flights can last for days. Gas balloon flights require much more preparation and equipment for cold weather, high altitude, and night flight. Gas balloonists also pack enough food and water for several days.

The Breitling Orbiter, which flew non-stop around the world in 1999, was a combination gas and hot air balloon.

Others in this Category

	How many balloons are there?
	What are balloons made of?
	What fuel do hot air balloons use, and where is it carried?
	How long do balloons last?
	How many people fit in a balloon?
	What happens if a bird flys into a balloon?
	Are all hot air balloons alike?
	Can I smoke in or around a hot air balloon?
	Can balloons fly over mountains?
	How do balloons fly?
	Why do balloons use wicker baskets to fly in?

Have a ballooning question that isn't answered here?

You can submit a question for inclusion in our Frequently Asked Questions.

Personal answers are not possible, but if your question is added we will email you and let you know!

Submit your Question

Ballooning Q&A

What are the differences between gas and hot air balloons?

Have a ballooning question that isn't answered here?