Every pilot and crewmember can build a mental database of visual cues that report weather data. More important than pre- launch weather is inflight weather, which is further removed in time from forecast conditions (electronic or briefings) but can change just as fast and dramatically. Wind speed or direction changes can signal developing rain or frontal movement. Radar returns require human interpretation and can miss developing conditions or provide false echoes off birds or buildings. Weather-savvy pilots and crew gather weather information from whatever source is available to them anywhere, at any time. 

## Performance Planning/Fuel Planning 

The good balloon pilot checks the balloon’s performance charts, considering that day’s conditions, and comes to a reasonable conclusion regarding the limitations of the balloon for that particular flight. Prior to flight (and perhaps even prior to layout), fuel gauges should be checked to ensure there is sufficient fuel on board to conduct the planned flight. 

## The Chase Crew 

Generally, there are two different areas of responsibility for a crew: inflation/launch and chase/recovery. Both are usually referred to as ground crew. Passengers often serve as inflation crew, become passengers for the flight, and crew again after the balloon has landed. Before the noise and activity make discussion difficult, the pilot should give the crew briefing and discuss any requirements before inflation. 

## Number of Crewmembers 

The number of crewmembers is a matter of individual preference and depends upon the size of the balloon, purpose of the flight, terrain, and other factors. When using a small balloon for instruction, a crew of three people, including the instructor, student, and one crew, may be sufficient. For passenger flights in large balloons, a larger number of crewmembers are generally required. Having too many people in the chase vehicle may be a distraction for the driver. The recommended minimum crew for the vehicle is two: one person to drive and the other to navigate and serve as a balloon “spotter.” This is perhaps the safest method. 

The optimum size inflation crew for a sport balloon is four people—the pilot operating the burner, two people holding the mouth open, and one person on the crown line. Some pilots opt to have a fifth person serve as a fan operator; this is a matter of technique and personal preference. Many pilots prefer a larger number of crewmembers; however, it is important to be aware that too many crewmembers may often be working against each other due to lack of coordination. In windy or crowded situations, it is important to have a person holding the crown line. If inflation requires more crew than usual, due to the windy conditions, consideration should be given to 

canceling the flight. Although the balloon may get airborne, chances are that flying out of one’s comfort zone and having to prepare for a very windy landing may impair concentration. The distraction may hinder safe, enjoyable flying. 

## Clothing 

Crewmembers, as well as the pilot, should be clothed for safety and comfort. Cover or restrain long hair. Scarves, hanging jewelry, or loose eyeglasses can interfere with smooth setup, and can potentially be very dangerous, particularly near the inflation fan. Long sleeves and long trousers made of cotton instead of synthetic material are recommended. Try to wear clothes in layers since temperatures can change quite a bit from before sunrise to the recovery. Proper clothing protects participants from burns, poison oak/ivy, and other harmful plants. 

All crewmembers should wear gloves, preferably smooth leather, loose fitting, and easy to remove. Wear comfortable and protective footwear. If it becomes necessary to walk or hike from a landing site inaccessible by the chase vehicle, proper clothing and footwear make the task easier and less hazardous. 

## Types of Flight 

Knowing the function or purpose of a flight is important to the crew, so they know the goals of the operation; possible time aloft; probable direction(s) of flight; probable altitudes; communications, if any, to be used; and useful maps or charts. Balloon flights can be classified into several different types: paid passenger, instruction, race, rally, advertising/ promotion, and fun. 

Many commercial balloon pilots defray the cost of the sport by offering paid passenger rides. The crew should know that these passengers are paying for the privilege, and may have been promised a certain type and length of flight. Instructional flights require the crew follow the direction of the instructor, so the student may see and participate as much as possible. The crew should work closely with the instructor and student and not take over any portion of the operation, thus denying the student the opportunity to learn. For competitions, crew responsibilities may be different. The pilot may have only a single goal in mind and focus on that goal. The crew’s job is always to help the pilot, but in the case of the competition flight, the crew should try to relieve the pilot of some of the routine tasks so he or she may concentrate on the goals. Regardless of the type of flight, the crew is there to support the pilot in conducting a safe and successful flight operation. 

