The Chase

Once the pilot has left the ground, the Crew Chief will direct the ground portion of the flight. Load the fan making sure it is properly tied off both the top and in floor tie downs will be used, tie-off ropes, and any other items left in the launch field. Be sure to scan the launch area for anything left (garbage, hats, small children). Secure items in the chase vehicle as directed by the Crew Chief. Load up the crew and prepare to "chase" the balloon.

The "chase" crew is incorrectly named. The "Lead" crew is more appropriate as the pilot usually prefers the crew try to stay in front of the balloon. Some rules to follow in the "Chase" are:

* Follow standard driving rules

* Don't wreck the chase vehicle

* Balloons are pretty to watch, but make sure someone is paying attention to driving. At all times for I'll Fly Away Balloon team, The driver drives and the navigator spots the balloon.

* Stay on the roads, but don't block them

* Don't drive on property without permission

* Don't let spectators follow you onto private property

* Use the radio sparingly - the pilot may be busy

* Use the radio correctly. When you are calling the pilot the correct way is to say "I'll Fly Away Chase to I'll Fly Away Balloon."  The pilot when he call down to the chase crew will say "I'll Fly Away Balloon to I'll Fly Away Chase."

When you respond from the pilot, say "Go Ahead I'll Fly Away Balloon, this is Chase."

*Be respectful on the radio. Other crews use the same frequency as we do and we do not want to overuse the radios and not let other crews communicate with thier pilots.

* Do Not use foul langauge on the radio. These frequencies are not private channels and can be picked up by anybody.

* Try to stay ahead and look for landing sites. Look for access into the field. Is there a fence? Does the fence open? Are there no tresspassing signs present? Are there power lines in the field? These are questions you should be looking for so when the pilot states I am going to land in that field you can notify him of what is present and he can make his decision to land or to fly on.

* The pilot can land without you, so don't panic.

* Don't get in front of a landing basket. A balloon and basket, when inflated, can weigh 3000-4000 pounds and you will get hurt if you get in front of the basket. When the pilot is landing, get behind the basket and keep your weight on the basket until directed it is ok to let go.

* Be patient and courteous at all times

* Try to get permission from landowners after the pilot indicates a landing is planned. I'll Fly Away Crew will get landowner permission for the pilot and will radio up to the pilot whether or not this is a good site.

* If the pilot indicates a "drop line" landing is planned, grab the line with your gloved hand and act as an anchor - don't pull down. Follow the instructions of the crew chief.He will direct the proper use of a drop line in the chase vehicle before one is to be used.