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The crown line varies in length. Some pilots let the line hang straight down; some pilots connect the end of the line to the basket or burner frame. Other pilots keep the line only long enough to assist with a windy inflation, or deflation in a confined area. Usually, there are no knots in the crown line, but you might find a type of loop attached to it. Some pilots put knots in their line, or attach flags or other objects. These may snag in trees and cause problems. Lines tied to the basket form a huge loop that may snag a tree limb and should be secured with a light, breakaway tie. 

To improve control, some pilots use a double crown line during very windy conditions. This technique, as shown in Figure 6-6,  allows for better control of the envelope when winds may be gusting, but still within reasonable flight limits, as may be present in an afternoon launch. Many pilots launch in afternoon winds, knowing that winds generally decrease significantly as sunset approaches. One advantage of this technique is that the balloon can be kept stable in fairly gusty winds, even if held on the ground for an extended period of time. This may be helpful for the pilot who may be doing a static (non-flying) tether, or perhaps during an evening “balloon glow” when winds may remain gusty until well after sunset. 

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## Launch Site 

When selecting a launch site, factors to consider are obstacles in direction of flight (powerlines, buildings, towers, etc.), available landing sites, and the launch site surface. 

## Location and Obstacles 

The launch site is selected based on surface winds and winds aloft, in conjunction with the desires of the balloon pilot. Consideration is given to what type of flight is being made and to the overall goal of the flight. Upon arriving at a particular launch site, most pilots release another pibal to verify the wind direction, and ensure that the forecasts or earlier readings have not changed significantly. 

Ideally, the launch site should be a large, open grassy area. Obstacles in the flight path are a consideration. As a general rule, the balloon should be placed as far as possible upwind of any obstructions to flight (powerlines, trees, buildings, etc.), using a minimum of 100 feet of clearance for each knot of wind. [Figure 6-7] 

