Model Balloonists Application

Dear Applicant,

The Midlands Air Festival returns to the spacious rolling hills of the Ragley Hall Estate.  We will once again be adopting a relaxed atmosphere with a great balloonist package.  Applications are now open and close on Saturday 31st October 2026.  Unfortunately we cannot accept any late applications and there are a limited number of spaces available.
The application process is as follows:
  1. View Pilot's Invitation here.
  2. Apply using the form below.
  3. Receive an offer of a space at the Midlands Air Festival 2027 by Sunday 8th November 2026.
  4. Pay for your entry and extra passes ordered by Sunday 6th December 2026 to confirm your space.

We hope you can join us for another friendly event and look forward to seeing you there!

​James & Trev

    Application Form

    ​Pilot Details
    ​Balloon Details
    Max file size: 20MB
    Max file size: 20MB
    Max file size: 20MB
    Max file size: 20MB
    Max file size: 20MB
    Pilot Declaration
    I solemnly declare that, for all of the dates on which I will pilot a balloon at the Midlands Air Festival 2027, the following items will be in force and valid:
    • Insurance for at least the amounts required by law for third party damage (£25,000,000 is recommended by the BMFA)
    • I declare that the balloon is safe to fly at the Midlands Air Festival 2027 and may be subject to a technical check at any time during the event
    • I declare that the pilot who will fly the model balloon(s) at the Midlands Air Festival 2027 is competent to do so or will have adequate supervision by persons who are suitable for this task
    • I undertake to bring the original documentary evidence of my insurance (and CAA Operators ID details, if applicable) to the event and to have them available for examination should this be requested
    • No model balloon will be free flown (unless they are registered with the CAA as an Operator and have their I.D. number attached within their basket and follow all CAA regulations), only hand on basket or tethered flights will be allowed, subject to wind conditions
    • I agree to indemnify the organisers of the event and Ragley Hall against any claims made against them as a result of the operation of the above balloon(s) during the event
    • I understand that all inflation, flying and other activity during operation of the balloon(s) during the event is subject to the permission of the organisers and their representatives and I accept their authority on all operational matters during the event. I also understand that the decision to fly or tether within this permission is entirely the pilot’s responsibility
    ​Camping
    Camping is provided free of charge, no additional pass required. 
    Arrival Day
    ​Passes
    One pilot, one crew pass and one vehicle pass will be included within your application.  Additional vehicle passes may be requested free of charge, as well as additional crew passes for £50 inc VAT (food not included).  Please note, under 13s do not need a wristband.

    Please indicate below your additional pilot/crew passes.  

    Please indicate below your additional vehicle passes.  Remember to include passes for campervans etc.
    Four food passes are included within your pack, and these are for Saturday & Sunday breakfast as well as the meal on Saturday evening.  Additional food can be purchased on the day, there is no need to request this in advance.  If your team has any dietary requirements, please indicate these below.