Hot Air Balloon almost hit my house

[McKinneyRes]

This last weekend I was alarmed by some loud noises that sounded like they were coming from above and outside my house. (It was the Gas/Flame being let out into the Balloon)
I went out the backyard to find a Hot Air Balloon about 5 feet from the top of my 2 story home..
I am not sure if they were trying to land in the park behind him home and missed our what..
But are there not some laws againts flying so low?

They could have done damage to my home..

[Bobette]

Welcome to Collin County!!

We've experienced the excitement of hot air ballon fly overs for over 20 years now. Had near hits when we lived in Plano and west McKinney. I don't know if there's any "rules" on them but I'm thinking if they hit your roof, the rider is probably going to be the one with the bruises and some equipment to replace!

Seriously though, we had episodes of them landing on residential streets, ball fields, parks, etc. Usually those were extreme situations due to unexpected and uncooperative weather conditions or down drafts. The "pilots" seem to be very cautious and skilled so I don't think a mishap would be intentional or due to lack of experience.

I have a friend who does the ballon fest in Plano each year. I'll see if I can find out who the governing body is for hot air balloons.

B--

[Bobette]

Hi again -

Well as is usual, trying to research the information is ridiculous. I swear the government loves to watch us chase our tails. The FAA is the governing agency for any air craft. I did find this:

Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO)
Contact your local FSDO for information on:

Low-flying aircraft
Accident Reporting
Air carrier certification and operations
Aircraft maintenance
Aircraft operational issues
Aircraft permits
Airmen certification (licensing) for pilots, mechanics, repairmen, dispatchers, and parachute riggers
Certification and modification issues
Enforcement of Airmen & Aircraft Regulations

The office number for our area is - (817) 684-6700. If you actually get to speak to someone, I would be interested in hearing what they have to say.

Good luck! B--

[Gorimipt73]

Very Dangerous Weather we are having....I would be worried as well, I hope they do not let them outside to play. I know it would hard on the children to have to stay in all day and on the teachers, but it is just to hot to be doing anything physical outside.