What are balloon baskets made of?
The walls of the basket are usually woven from rattan wicker. Rattan wicker is used most often for the basket walls because it is light in weight while at the same time being strong and flexible. However, other materials have been used in the construction of basket walls including wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. Most baskets also contain a support framework made of wood, aluminum, steel, cable, rope, or a combination of these materials. Baskets are designed so that the weight inside the basket, i.e. fuel tanks and passengers, is transferred directly to the load tapes or ropes of the envelope.
