Is wind required to fly?
No, but most balloonists prefer about 6-8 km per hour surface wind. Contrary to popular belief, wind is not a prerequisite for a hot air balloon flight. It's the hot air filling the balloon that creates the lift necessary for flight. However, having a gentle breeze, typically around 6-8 km per hour at surface level, is beneficial. This slight wind can provide some level of directionality and steerage during the flight. Remember, unlike other aircraft, hot air balloons move with the wind rather than against it, so while they don't require wind to lift off, it does play a role in the journey's direction and pace.
