## Personal Preparation 

The most important single element in preflight preparation is the pilot. A pilot anticipating a flight should do a quick self- analysis to ensure that he or she is mentally and physically capable and competent to perform. It is not uncommon to see pilots and crews drive all night to get to an event, and, without sleep or perhaps suffering from a cold or other ailment, go ahead and fly. Allow enough time and resources to remain healthy, rested, and focused enough to make wise flight preparations and decisions that maximize flight safety. 

It is a good policy to do an individual “preflight,” using the “I’M SAFE” evaluation checklist as illustrated in Chapter 1, Introduction to Balloon Flight Training, Figure 1-5 . 

## Chapter Summary 

Flying a hot air balloon requires extensive preflight planning which depends upon a knowledge of meteorology applied to local weather conditions, the ability to navigate using charts and maps, familiarity with the equipment used in ballooning, a good support ground crew, and a dash of common sense. Safe flight experiences for a pilot in ballooning or any other aircraft depend upon continuing education and experience. 

