Safety belts are required to be secured about which persons and when?

• A. Passengers, during taxi, takeoffs, and landings only
• B. Pilots and crew during all phases
• C. Passengers and crew during en route
• D. Ground crew during taxi

Answer: (A)

In balloon operations, the moment when belts are required is during the times the basket is moving on the ground or near the point of flight—taxi, takeoff, and landing. These phases involve the basket bouncing, tilting, and possible sudden motions as you interact with the ground, wind shifts, or the descent and ascent at a close range. Wearing a safety belt keeps passengers securely seated, prevents injuries from unexpected movement, and helps the pilot maintain control of the load during those critical moments.

During en route, the motion is typically steadier and the risk of sudden jolt is much lower, so a passenger belt is not required in that phase. The option that specifies passengers must be belted during taxi, takeoff, and landing aligns with the usual safety practice for hot air balloons.