Hi Pamela,
I LOVE Characters in Flight & consider myself a frequent flyer! The helium filled balloon is tethered to a platform & can ascend up to 400 ft depending on weather conditions. The gondola holds up to 29 people & the pilot which is also dictated by the weather. The flight including ascending & descending lasts approximately 10 minutes. On my last flight we got to hang out a couple of extra minutes because no one was waiting in line - just part of the Disney magic. There are no height or age restrictions but I wouldn't recommend it to people with a fear of heights. Unlike hot air balloons, this balloon is very quiet. Its so smooth, you can't even feel it going up or coming down. Click
here to see a video featuring Moms Panelist Cathy & her family on CIF.
As of 5-31-10, tickets are $18 for adults (ages 10 & up), $12 for children (ages 3 - 9) & guests 2 or under are free. Prices include tax. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are purchased near the loading zone (near Planet Hollywood). They do not take reservations - you purchase your tickets & wait in line until its your turn to board. I recommend getting there early as the lines can get long fast - but its worth the wait.
A company called Aerophile operates CIF. There have been at least 2 pilots on duty each time I've flown. They were all super nice & told us lots of interesting info. The day & night flights are different experiences. If you're lucky enough for your night flight to be timed just right, you might even catch a glimpse of the fireworks. Be sure you take your camera & binoculars.
I highly recommend CIF. It may not be something you'll do every visit but something everyone should experience at least once. Wishing you magical memories :-) Allison