Once the balloon is in a location where the pilot feels deflation and packing can proceed, the crown line should be manned. When the pilot pulls the parachute top out, the hot air will begin escaping and the envelope will begin collapsing. The crown line operator should pull the crown in a direction that will keep the envelope away from any hazards.

This will usually be downwind. (Note: If a ground cover or tarp is used, it should be placed in position before deflation.) To keep pace with the envelope’s deflation, and to prevent the fabric from falling on top of the burner and basket, it is often necessary for the crown line holder to actually run in order to keep tension on the line.

Now we have to get all that air out that we worked so hard to get in. Most of the air will escape through the crown. By holding it open, deflation time can be reduced considerably.

At the center of the crown (top), there is usually a metal wring that connects the tops of the load tapes together. This puppy gets hot!

Try to avoid touching it until it has cooled, even if you’re wearing gloves.

If equipped with a removable thermometer, this must be removed once the air temperature at the crown is reduced to a safe level. The pilot or crew chief will usually handle this.

On some balloons - - those with special shapes - - there may be areas in the envelope where the air becomes trapped and won’t completely deflate. Often, the builder will install special openings to allow escape of this trapped air. These usually are Velcro-sealed slots. The pilot or crew chief will brief you on the location and care of these slots.

In order to get the envelope back in the bag, the remaining air must be removed. The most common way is to squeeze the air out from one end to the other. Starting at the mouth, the crew squeezes the air towards the crown, leaving the envelope looking like a big, colorful sausage.

Again, do not pull on the balloon by anything other than the load tapes.

After all the air is out, the crown line is braided or otherwise secured at the top of the envelope. The envelope is then placed back in the bag, the wires are placed on top, and the bag is closed and tied.

At the same time, the pilot will usually disconnect the wires and, with the assistance of a crewmember, disassemble the basket and burners.

Once all equipment has been loaded back on/in the chase vehicle, the landing area should be checked closely. The area should be left in the same or better condition than when you got there. The chase crew should be prepared to assist the pilot with any landowner relations necessary.