Members of the public are urged to exercise extreme caution when booking hot air balloon experiences advertised online, particularly through social media.
Specialist investigator Mike Bolhuis has issued an urgent public warning identifying an operation trading as “Hartees Air Adventures” and using the website harteesair.com as a fraudulent booking platform.
According to the public warning issued by Mike Bolhuis, the operation advertises non-existent hot air balloon flights over Hartbeespoort Dam and other locations. Customers are allegedly encouraged to make payments for flights that are never provided.
How the alleged scam operates
The warning describes a convincing online operation designed to appear like a legitimate tourism business.
Potential customers reportedly encounter advertisements for hot air balloon flights on Facebook. Once someone expresses interest, the conversation is moved to WhatsApp, where the booking discussion continues privately.
Customers are then offered heavily discounted “promotional rates” and pressured to make payment quickly before the supposed offer expires. After payment, they may receive professional-looking booking confirmations and detailed flight instructions, creating the impression that a genuine reservation has been secured.
However, the advertised balloon flight does not take place.
The investigation also reports that the same operators may be using the name “Magalies Sky”.
Warning signs to watch for
Consumers should be cautious when encountering:
- Prices that appear considerably lower than established market rates
- Social media advertisements directing all enquiries to WhatsApp
- Pressure to pay immediately to secure a limited promotional offer
- Requests for payment into a personal bank account
- Claims of flights directly over Hartbeespoort Dam
- Conflicting business addresses or contact information
- Operators who cannot provide proof of their aviation credentials
- Websites with no verifiable operating history, physical base or recognised industry accreditation
A polished website, attractive photographs and convincing WhatsApp messages are not proof that an aviation operator is legitimate.
Verify the operator before making payment
Commercial hot air balloon flights in South Africa are regulated aviation activities. A legitimate operator must hold the appropriate South African Civil Aviation Authority approvals and operate in accordance with applicable aviation requirements.
Before paying for a flight, consumers should:
- Confirm the operator’s full registered business name.
- Request proof of its SACAA Air Service Licence and Air Operator Certificate.
- Verify the operator’s physical location and established operating history.
- Check that its telephone numbers, email addresses and banking details correspond with the registered business.
- Look for independent reviews accumulated over a credible period.
- Contact the operator directly through the details published on its official website.
- Be wary of anyone creating urgency or discouraging you from verifying the booking.
What to do if you have already paid
Anyone who has made a payment to “Hartees Air Adventures”, “Magalies Sky” or a similar suspected operation should act immediately:
- Contact your bank and report the transaction as fraudulent.
- Ask whether the payment can be stopped, recalled or investigated.
- Open a case with the South African Police Service.
- Preserve all WhatsApp conversations, emails, invoices, payment confirmations and screenshots.
- Report the relevant social media page or advertisement.
- Provide the available information to the investigating authorities.
Do not delete any communication, even if it appears unimportant. Small details such as telephone numbers, account names and timestamps may assist an investigation.
Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris is not associated with this operation
Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has no connection or association with “Hartees Air Adventures”, harteesair.com or “Magalies Sky”.
Established in 1981, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris is a licensed commercial hot air balloon operator with an established base in the Magalies River Valley near Skeerpoort.
Official reservations and enquiries should only be made through our recognised contact channels:
Website: www.balloon.co.za
Telephone: +27 83 457 3402
Email: nadia@balloon.co.za
We encourage the public to share this warning and help prevent further financial losses.
This article summarises the public warning published by specialist investigator Mike Bolhuis on 20 July 2026. Readers are encouraged to consult the original report for the complete details.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.
