Are balloons classified as aircraft according to aviation regulations?

Balloons are classified as aircraft according to aviation regulations. This classification applies because they are used for flight and operate in the air, similar to other aircraft such as airplanes and helicopters. The regulations encompass various aspects, including rules governing their operation, airspace usage, and pilot certification.

This classification is important because it means that balloon pilots must adhere to the same safety and regulatory standards as pilots of other types of aircraft, such as pre-flight checks, airworthiness standards, and operational regulations. Understanding that balloons are part of the broader category of aircraft helps clarify the legal and safety framework within which all aviation operates.