Is the Teotihuacan balloon safe?

Have there been accidents at Teotihuacan?

Yes. The most serious was in April 2023, when a balloon basket caught fire near the archaeological zone and a married couple from Mexico City died; their teenage daughter was injured. Press reports said the balloon was not registered with the local balloon federation.

Later incidents reported in the Mexican press include a balloon that came down in the streets of San Martin de las Piramides on 23 May 2025, injuring 14 people, and a balloon that hit power lines on 16 March 2026, burning two British tourists. These are rare against the number of flights, but they are real, and they are why operator choice matters.

What changed after the accidents?

Mexico issued its first mandatory rules written specifically for passenger balloons in May 2024, revised since, and authorities now run inspection sweeps.

After the May 2025 incident, State of Mexico authorities inspected launch sites near the archaeological zone and temporarily suspended nine companies. After the March 2026 incident, AFAC inspected 46 balloons, found irregularities in 23 of them and suspended three companies. Inspections are a sign the rules are enforced.

How do you choose a safe operator?

Choose an established operator with a long, recent review record, and ask for its AFAC permit and passenger insurance.

Balloons in Mexico carry an XB- registration on the envelope, and pilots hold AFAC licences. Reputable operators answer these questions readily. Be wary of very cheap offers sold on the street near the site, where you cannot tell who actually flies you.

Who should not fly?

Pregnant travelers, people with heart, back, spine or knee problems or recent surgery, and anyone under the influence of alcohol.

Operators state these limits in their listings. Children can fly from about 4 or 5 years old, depending on the operator, always with an adult. If you have a medical condition, ask your doctor and the operator before booking.

Is there a weight limit for safety?

Yes: operators balance each basket by weight, and most charge or refuse passengers above set limits.

Most charge extra above 100 kg (220 lb); Volare sets a maximum of 120 kg (265 lb), and We Fly's listing gives 99 kg. You will be weighed or asked your weight at check-in. Be honest: it is about the balance of the basket.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Pilots ground the balloons in strong wind, rain or fog, and operators move you to another morning.

Flyers describe operators messaging the night before to move a flight because of forecast rain, and others standing down at the field. Book early in your trip. See the best time to fly.

Prefer a smaller group? This tour caps groups at 15 and includes about 90 minutes at the pyramids.

★ 4.9 7,497 reviews · 4 to 7 hours · from $155

Explore flight, cave and pyramids →

What should you do during the flight?

Listen to the safety briefing, keep hands inside the basket, and take the landing position when the pilot asks.

The landing position usually means knees bent, back to the direction of travel, holding the rope handles. Keep phones on a strap, and never lean out for a photo.

Frequently asked questions