What type of fuel is commonly used in hot air balloon burners?

Hot air balloon burners typically use propane as their fuel source. Propane is favored for its efficiency and ability to produce a significant amount of heat quickly, which is essential for heating the air within the balloon envelope. The combustion of propane generates a high-temperature flame, which is necessary to create the lift required for the balloon to ascend. Additionally, propane is relatively easy to transport and handle, making it a practical choice for the diverse environments in which hot air balloons operate.

While natural gas, petrol, and kerosene may be used as fuels in various applications, they are not suitable for hot air balloons. Natural gas is primarily delivered via pipelines and is not as portable as propane. Petrol can be volatile and is generally not used in this context due to safety concerns. Kerosene has applications in jet engines and other aircraft but does not produce the immediate heat output needed for hot air balloon operation. Therefore, propane remains the standard fuel choice in the industry.