Ballooning Forecasts

What are Ballooning Forecasts?

Ballooning forecasts are specialised weather briefings tailored to the unique needs of balloon pilots. Balloonists are particularly sensitive to weather conditions, so a robust and accurate weather briefing is critical for safe operations.

In addition to the general aviation weather products available to all pilots, the Met Office provides site-specific ballooning forecasts. These forecasts include information of relevance to ballooning, such as:

• Thermal strength
• Windshear
• Temperature inversions

These forecasts are designed to help balloonists identify suitable launch windows and avoid potentially hazardous conditions.

In collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), we have also published guidance on how to interpret and use these forecasts effectively which cane be found below.

Who Are They For?

• Balloon Pilots – To assess localised weather risks and plan safe flights.
• Ballooning Clubs and Event Organisers – To determine whether conditions are suitable for launches.
• Trainee Balloonists – For learning how to interpret weather data specific to ballooning.

What Does It Include?

• Site-specific forecasts for ballooning locations
• Key parameters such as:
  • Thermal activity
  • Winds at various altitudes
  • Inversion layers
• Issued multiple times daily to reflect changing conditions

When and How Is It Issued?

• Forecasts are updated regularly throughout the day.
• Full AM and PM forecasts are typically available by 08:30 UTC and 20:30 UTC, respectively 
• Forecasts are accessible shortly after issue times via the Met Office website.

How Can I Access the Service?

Ballooning forecasts are available through the Met Office Aviation Briefing Service 
Guidance on interpreting these forecasts is available in the official Ballooning Forecast Guidance PDF