Regulator announces transition rules until 2028 to “create a safe and modern environment for commercial ballooning”
A (National Civil Aviation Agency) published a resolution that establishes specific rules for the commercial operation of manned balloons in Brazil. The measure, approved by the agency’s collegial board, was published in the Official Gazette of the Union on October 31 and is part of a regulatory transition process that will be completed by 2028.
The objective is to create a safe and modern environment for commercial ballooning, an activity that has grown in tourist cities such as Boituva (SP) and Torres (RS), and which until now was only classified as a sporting or recreational practice.
Rules come into force in December
The 1st phase of the new standards comes into force in December 2025 and will last 1 year. In this initial stage, Anac defined minimum safety and operational criteria that will be applied while the sector adapts to future requirements.
According to the rules, operators will be able to use certified balloons, experimental balloons with flight authorization (Cave) or equipment registered as aerosport in accordance with the (Brazilian Civil Aviation Regulation).
Non-certified balloons must be evaluated by an aeronautical engineer or mechanic registered with the (Regional Engineering and Agronomy Council), with a technical report proving its safety. At this stage, they will only be able to transport up to 15 people and have an envelope of maximum 10,000 m³.
All balloons will need to have mandatory equipment, such as altimeter, communication radio, fuel indicator, fire extinguisher and handles for each passenger. RETA insurance (Civil Liability of the Explorer or Air Carrier), provided for in the Brazilian Aeronautics Code, will also be required.
Pilots and companies will also have to adapt
Anac defined requirements for pilots and operators of commercial flights. The pilot must have a valid PBL (Free Balloon Pilot) License. Anyone who does not yet have a license may request exceptional authorization for a temporary period, as long as they present a 2nd class CMA (Aeronautical Medical Certificate) and pass theoretical and practical exams. The deadline for obtaining this authorization will be 60 days after the resolution comes into force.
Operating companies will need to register with Anac and prepare flight plans based on official meteorological information. They must also keep records of maintenance, carry out risk analysis before each flight and clearly inform passengers of the type of balloon used and the pilot’s qualifications.
The requirements also include providing guidance to passengers on take-off and landing procedures, as well as ensuring sufficient fuel and compliance with parameters for operations in unregistered areas.
City halls will have a role in monitoring
City halls in cities where ballooning is practiced will need to register with Anac to inform the areas authorized for take-off.
They must also report irregularities and support the agency’s inspection. In places with more than 15 balloons operating, the creation of meteorological information centers may be required.
Complete regulation by 2028
After the 1st phase comes into force, Anac will open a public hearing within 60 days to receive suggestions on the next steps.
The schedule predicts that the regulatory transition will be completed in 2028, when definitive and more rigorous rules, aligned with international standards, come into force.
According to the agency, the new regulatory framework should strengthen commercial ballooning and boost tourism and local economic development.
