Does the pilot need a license to fly a balloon?
Absolutely! Balloons are aircraft and governed by the Federal Aviation Administration. Balloon pilots must receive the training and pass the same tests as any pilot does. One must pass an FAA written exam, have a certain number of flight hours in a balloon, make a solo flight, and make a flight to altitude. Then you must pass an oral exam and a flight checkride. Balloon pilots must have a biennial flight review every two years.
