Balloons have the right of way over other traffic. Therefore, an ADS-L out or ADS-B out function is sufficient to become electronically visible to other aircraft categories. At night, or when operating below VMC conditions (refer to VRV-L Art. 29) a Mode S transponder (without ADS-B) is the minimum equipment. It is recommended to keep an existing Mode S transponder and if possible, upgrade to ADS-B out.
Technology recommendation:
1. ADS-L out
Recommended to be electronically visible to other traffic.
2. ADS-L in/out
Among balloons, there is a special risk of a lower balloon climbing into another one directly above, with the view obstructed by the balloon’s envelope. Therefore an “in” function can be very desirable from a safety perspective, especially for ballooning events with take-offs in short sequence and longer flights of multiple balloons in proximity. Furthermore, balloon pilots regularly operating close to or within CTRs or TMAs may want to benefit from improved situational awareness.
3. ADS-B out
Recommended to be electronically visible to other traffic, especially when operating below VMC or at night.
Last modification 21.05.2025
