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Old March 2nd 09, 11:24 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Jim Logajan
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Posts: 1,958
Default Legal? - SPOT Helium Balloon Race

Andy wrote:
On Mar 2, 12:27*pm, "Paul Remde" wrote:
Hi,

This was a crazy idea I had that my son thought would be a lot of fun.

*The
question is whether or not it is legal or advisable.


I assume you paid for the free replacement contract and want to see
how effective it is

If I was going to launch the balloons I'd rather not have anything
traceable to me attached to them.


Why not? Last I checked, balloon launchers had an equal right to use the
public airspace as anyone else. (In the U.S. part 101 contains the
regulations pertinent to safe operations of balloons.)

I've been startled by party balloons when flying power planes in the
Phoenix area. They wouldn't hurt if I hit one. I don't relish the
idea of getting a spot through the prop or windshield.


I hate to break it to you, but you are more likely to run into a bird than
a balloon of any sort. Or even another manned aircraft.

My take - don't do it. If you have to do it, don't do it anywhere I
could be flying.


Just to be clear - if the risk of using a public commons is too great for
you, you always have the option of not using it. If free balloons bother
you that much, don't fly.