"Soaring Safely: A Beginner's Guide to Hot Air Ballooning"

🎈 Soaring Safely: A Guide to Hot Air Ballooning

Presented by Ralph Payne, Retired FAA Aviation Safety Inspector & Hot Air Balloon Instructor
June 16 • 6 PM • Hastings Public Library Community Room

Have you ever gazed at a colorful hot air balloon drifting through the sky and wondered what it’s like to be up there? Now’s your chance to explore the magic, mechanics, and safety behind one of aviation’s most enchanting experiences!

Join us for Soaring Safely, a captivating, all-ages presentation led by Ralph Payne, a retired FAA Aviation Safety Inspector, seasoned commercial hot air balloon pilot, and dedicated flight instructor. With decades of flight experience and countless hours in the air, Ralph will take you on a journey through the history, science, and sheer wonder of hot air ballooning.

Learn what it takes to launch, navigate, and safely land a balloon. Discover the meticulous safety procedures and training that go into every flight, and hear fascinating stories from the skies. Whether you dream of becoming a pilot, want to know how balloon festivals work, or simply marvel at the view from above, this event promises fun, facts, and plenty of inspiration.

Registration isn’t required, but it helps! Get email reminders, handouts, and be eligible for prizes if available.

Bring your curiosity—and your questions—as we take flight without ever leaving the ground!

Perfect for families, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone who’s ever looked up and wondered.