Graz balloon landing highlights pilots’ broad landing rights
Friday 30th October 2026 on 08:15 in
Austria
A hot-air balloon landing in a densely populated part of Graz drew attention from residents, but Austrian law allows balloons to land almost anywhere, ORF reported.
About 200 trained balloon pilots are based in Styria. They may land wherever they find a suitable spot, except in military restricted areas.
Under Section 10 of Austria’s Aviation Act, hot-air balloons may land in both built-up and open areas. Elisabeth Kindermann-Schön, who teaches aviation law at Austria’s only balloon pilot school in Krems, said a landing in a city can naturally attract attention.
Aircraft, including hot-air balloons, must generally remain at least 150 metres above the ground, except during take-off and landing. Balloons move with the wind and pilots can control only their altitude, so finding a suitable landing place can take time, Kindermann-Schön said.
A landing that looks close to a tree or building from the ground may appear different from the pilot’s perspective, she added.
Pilots hold a Balloon Pilot Licence. Depending on whether they fly commercially or privately, they must complete a check flight every 24 or 48 months and provide evidence of minimum flight hours.