In a scenario with two hot air balloons, which pilot must give way?

In the scenario with two hot air balloons, the pilot at the higher altitude must give way to the pilot at the lower altitude. This is consistent with the principles of aviation regulations, which prioritize safety and ensure that the aircraft that is lower has the right of way.

The underlying rationale is based on the idea that an aircraft at a higher altitude has the ability to change course or altitude more effectively, while the aircraft at a lower altitude may have less maneuverability or options for avoiding a collision. This rule helps maintain safe distances between aircraft, preventing potential accidents during flight.

The context of other choices highlights specific situations or factors that may not always apply universally in the airspace, such as the dynamics of landing or the specific weight of the balloons, which do not dictate right of way in the same fundamental way as altitude does. Thus, maintaining the principle of altitude priority is essential for safety in shared airspace.