Ecole Française d'Aérostation

The École Française d’Aérostation is a specialist school for people who want to learn to pilot hot-air balloons or develop their existing skills. Led by two approved, experienced instructors, the school provides practical and theoretical training based on official French and European programmes. Its courses cover the pilot certificate and licence for free hot-air balloons, professional balloon piloting, advanced training, and periodic licence renewals.

The school also supports professional organisations with training for flight and ground personnel, refresher courses, and instruction for pilots seeking to progress to a higher licence group. Training is offered across two broad regions: western France, including the Marais Poitevin, Poitou, Touraine, and Anjou; and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes area, including Forez, the Dombes, Mâcon, and Beaujolais near Lyon. Trainees may study in one or several locations, gaining experience in varied flying conditions. With flexible programmes and a focus on learning from different people and places, the school aims to provide a broad, practical foundation for recreational and professional ballooning.