Hi guys, I just stumbled on this thread and could not resist sticking my oar in
It is true that to a greater extent a balloon flight lacks the infinite control that fixed or rotary have, however I would argue that it can take a high degree of skill to land precisely on target as there is often no second chance (get it right first time!).
Given advance planning it is often possible to launch with the intention of landing in a particular field 5 or 10 miles away! It is also possible to land on moving targets (and great fun!).
I think the biggest significant difference about ballooning compared to any other form of flying is that it is a 'shared experience'. It is enjoyed by people on the ground and in the air at the same time.
Ballooning is also the ONLY form of flying that enables you to fly just a few feet above the tree tops either safely (slow) or without disturbance (no rotor downwash).
Importantly, each to his own, and we are after all........aviators.
Happy landings
JWF
