Flight Manual for Gas Balloons of Type NL-STU
Issue 2.0
May 02, 2016
Page 1-3
1.4 Warning, Caution and Note
WARNING:
Failure to observe the procedures described will result in direct or serious
deterioration of flight safety.
CAUTION:
Failure to observe the procedures described will result in minor or more-or-less
long-term deterioration of flight safety.
NOTE:
Highlights a specific point that does not directly affect safety, but is important or
unusual.
1.5 General description
A manned gas balloon is a “lighter-than-air” aircraft. It consists of a gas-tight envelope with a
basket suspended beneath it. The basket is attached to the envelope by means of ropes. The
lifting gas is generally hydrogen or helium. The balloon rises by dropping fine sand ballast,
thereby making the balloon lighter. During flight, descent of the balloon can be initiated by vent-
ing lifting gas from the envelope. The balloon can only be steered by changing altitude, as
winds generally blow in different directions at different altitudes.