Why Hot Air Balloons Can't Change Course Once They're Landing

A Temecula pilot landed a hot air balloon in a homeowner's yard Saturday when wind conditions turned dangerous. Unlike airplanes, hot air balloons cannot power themselves forward or circle back for another approach—pilots must pick a landing spot and stick with it once fuel gets low. The pilot chose the residential yard over the risk of drifting over trees or roads and running out of fuel. All 13 passengers and crew walked away unhurt, with no property damage. The landing highlights why balloon pilots train hard to make quick, sound decisions when their options are very limited.