A Hot Air Balloon is an aircraft, in where the "Balloon" part is called an envelope which holds heated air and attached below the opening, is a wicker basket which carries the passengers and Pilot. Mounted above the basket is the "burner" or heat source. The burner injects a flame into the envelope heating the air within making it become buoyant as the colder air is on the outside of the envelope. 

Baskets are commonly made of woven wicker or rattan, which has been proven to be durable, strong and light. Small holes are woven into the side of the basket as foot holds to aid in climbing into and out of the basket.