A hot air balloon works as the hot air inside the balloon is surrounded by relatively cool air, the pilot uses this to this ascend or descend altitude. When the burner is on it will continue to rise and the balloon will loose altitude when the burner is switched off. At different altitudes the wind direction is different, so the pilot will move the balloon into different altitudes to take the balloon in desired direction. 

There is no door for getting into the balloon. It is a Hot Air requirement that each passenger can climb in and out over the 1.2 meter tall balloon basket. There are foot holes that make it easier to climb in. Passengers must also be able to stand up for the entire duration of their flight. 

There are holes in the basket that children are able to look through. You are able to carry your children as you will be allocated a spot where it is safe to do so. 

Yes all the passengers are to partake in the fun activity of packing up the balloon. 

The number of passengers on a Hot Air Balloon ride varies daily, this is dependant on the weather conditions and loadings on the day. Commercial balloon baskets come in different sizes and the do vary every day for each flight, balloon baskets can carry from 2 to 24 passengers.