Sales Policies

Our Policy on Manned Stratospheric Balloon Flights

Due to liability concerns and general incompatibility with existing business, it is
Aerostar's policy not to support man-carrying high altitude balloon flights.

The only exception to this policy would be a 100% government-run project.

In that case, the balloons and any engineering support would have to be provided
directly to the government agency. Even under these circumstances, the purpose
and plan for the project would be closely reviewed before a commitment could be
made for participation.

As always, we welcome inquiries concerning hot air balloon manned flights.
For more information about them, please visit our Hot Air Balloon Products Pages.

Our Policy on Balloon Sales for Unmanned Scientific Flights

Aerostar’s scientific balloon department is in the business of designing and
manufacturing stratospheric balloons for scientific research. We have enjoyed
successful relationships with government and university scientists for decades.

It is important that we work hard to protect the ability of our customers to continue
flying balloons without unnecessary regulation. Therefore, we reserve the right
to require certain assurances from our customers that our products will be used responsibly. Before a sale of a balloon can be made to a customer, we need
adequate assurances that:

1. All flights with Aerostar balloons will be carried out in accordance with
   Federal Aviation Regulation Part 101.
2. Balloon flights must be conducted by legitimate government, academic,
   or business concerns. Balloons will not be sold to amateur radio clubs
   or similar organizations.
3. Balloon flights must be conducted under the protection of a minimum
   of US $10 million liability policy.

The requirements of FAR 101 are not to be considered a guide to procedures for stratospheric balloon flights. Flight operations must be carried out in a manner that demonstrates good judgment and sound engineering practice.

This policy is subject to change without notice.

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