Fantasy Flights
BackWhen considering a hot air balloon excursion, the operator's experience, professionalism, and personal touch can make all the difference between a simple ride and a lasting memory. Fantasy Flights, located at 1985 Montana Hwy 35 in Kalispell, presents itself not as a conventional travel agency, but as a specialized tour operator dedicated exclusively to the art of ballooning over Montana's Flathead Valley. The business is a seasonal venture for the Flanagan family—led by pilot Kevin Flanagan, who has been flying since 1984, alongside his wife Debbie and daughter Devin. This family-run dynamic is a cornerstone of their service, consistently highlighted by customers as a key factor in their positive experiences.
The company, which also operates as 2 Fly Us in Phoenix, Arizona, during the cooler months, brings decades of experience to its summer operations in Montana, which typically run from June through September. This dual-location operation suggests a high level of expertise and a business model built on chasing ideal flying conditions. Customer feedback overwhelmingly points to a feeling of safety and confidence in Kevin's piloting skills. He is frequently described not just as a pilot but as a storyteller and a knowledgeable host, enriching the flight with trivia and history about the local area and the mechanics of ballooning itself. This transforms a passive sightseeing trip into an engaging and educational example of adventure travel.
The In-Flight Experience and Service
The entire experience with Fantasy Flights is structured to be personal and comprehensive, lasting approximately three to four hours from start to finish, with about an hour spent in the air. The process begins with an early start for the highly recommended sunrise flights, which offer the most stable weather conditions. The ground crew, often involving Debbie and Devin, is lauded for its friendly and professional demeanor, making guests feel involved and comfortable from the moment they arrive. Customers have noted the crew’s enthusiasm, explaining each step of the balloon's inflation and preparation, which provides numerous photo opportunities even before leaving the ground.
Once airborne, the primary draw is the spectacular view. The balloon's path is dictated by the wind, ensuring every flight is unique. Passengers can expect to drift over the Flathead Valley, witnessing its rivers, fields, and the surrounding mountain ranges, with potential views of Glacier National Park to the north and Flathead Lake to the south. The ride is consistently described as smooth and gentle, a crucial detail for potential passengers who may be apprehensive about heights. One detailed review specifically mentioned that individuals with a mild fear of heights found themselves at ease within minutes due to the balloon's slow, steady ascent and movement. This makes the activity accessible to a broader audience than more extreme outdoor activities.
What Sets Them Apart: The Personal Touch
Unlike larger operations that might pack 15 to 20 people into a basket, Fantasy Flights emphasizes a small-group setting, typically accommodating no more than four or five passengers per flight. This focus on intimate flights allows for a more personalized interaction with the pilot and an unobstructed view for everyone on board. It is a significant advantage for those seeking a less crowded, more personal tour. Following the flight, the experience is capped off with a traditional post-flight celebration, often including sparkling cider or champagne, where passengers can mingle with the crew and fellow guests. This finishing touch is frequently mentioned as a delightful conclusion to the adventure. Furthermore, Debbie Flanagan often takes photos during the flight and shares them with guests, a complimentary service that adds significant value and allows passengers to fully immerse themselves in the moment without worrying about capturing it themselves.
Points to Consider Before Booking
While the feedback for Fantasy Flights is overwhelmingly positive, potential customers should be aware of several practical aspects inherent to hot air ballooning. These are not so much negatives of the company itself, but rather realities of the activity that any prospective trip planner should factor into their holiday planning.
1. Weather Dependency is Absolute
The single most significant variable is the weather. Hot air ballooning requires calm, stable winds, which is why flights are scheduled for sunrise and, when conditions permit, a couple of hours before sunset. Reviews and operational details confirm that evening flights are more susceptible to cancellation due to windier conditions. Customers must approach this activity with a degree of flexibility; a booked flight is never guaranteed to proceed until the pilot makes the final call. The company's policy on weather cancellations typically involves a full refund or rescheduling, but it's a critical consideration for travelers on a tight schedule.
2. The Early Bird Gets the View
The most reliable and visually stunning flights happen at sunrise. This necessitates a very early wake-up call, which might not be ideal for everyone on vacation. The entire process begins before dawn, so participants should be prepared for an early start to their day. While the reward is a tranquil flight in the golden morning light, the early schedule is a mandatory part of the package.
3. It is a Premium Activity
A hot air balloon ride is an investment. While the provided data doesn't contain specific pricing, research shows that flights in the Kalispell area are priced per person, with standard sunrise flights costing around $350. Private flights for a more exclusive experience are also available at a significantly higher price point. This cost reflects the intricate logistics, insurance, equipment, and expertise involved. It's a premium component to add to a vacation package, best viewed as a special occasion or a bucket-list item rather than a casual tour.
4. Shared Experience
While the groups are small, the standard flight is a shared experience with other passengers. For those seeking complete privacy for a proposal, anniversary, or other special occasion, booking one of their customized tours in the form of a private flight is the recommended option, albeit at a premium cost. The intimacy of the small basket is a positive for many, but it is a shared space nonetheless.
Conclusion
Fantasy Flights offers a highly reputable and deeply personal version of a classic aerial adventure. The business thrives on the extensive experience and genuine passion of the family that runs it. The focus on small groups, combined with the educational and entertaining narrative provided by the pilot, elevates the experience beyond simple sightseeing. The positives are clear: a professional crew, a feeling of safety, breathtaking scenic tours, and a welcoming atmosphere from start to finish. The primary considerations for potential customers are the inherent unpredictability due to weather, the necessity of an early start, the significant financial investment, and the shared nature of the standard travel package. For travelers who can accommodate these factors, a flight with this operator promises to be a memorable highlight of a trip to the Flathead Valley.
