BFA Home - Balloon Federation of America

2026 BFA Election results!

The Results Are In! Thank you to everyone who voted in the 2026 BFA Elections! Congratulations to our newly elected directors…

(cont'd other side)

2026 BFA Election Information!

🎈 BFA Board • At-Large Director — Patrick Cannon
• Northeast Director — Bruce Byberg
• Western Director — Larry Simburger

❌ Hot Air Competition Division • At-Large — Patrick Cloyd
• Great Lakes Region — Ben Leatherman
• Southwest Region — Natasha Stanke

⛽️ Gas Division • Andrew Baird • Andrew Nels

MORE INFORMATION

Inside the BFA Podcast

"Inside the BFA" is the official podcast of the Balloon Federation of America, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the people, stories, and events shaping the world of ballooning. From safety tips and pilot interviews to event highlights and industry updates, we explore all things hot air ballooning. Whether you're a seasoned pilot, crew member, or just curious about the sport—this podcast is for you.
(Cont'd other side)

Starting in January 2026, the Inside the BFA Podcast will go live on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 PM Central Time!

A benefit of watching the live stream is you can ask questions during the Podcast. Be sure to log into YouTube other wise you cannot ask questions nor leave comments. Can't make it during the live stream? No problem simply watch the videos!

BFA Podcast Playlist

BFA YouTube Channel

BFA Wind Explorer App

The BFA Wind Explorer app, developed by the Balloon Federation of America, is a specialized tool for hot air balloon pilots to assess wind conditions at various altitudes. Utilizing a helium-filled balloon (piball), the app tracks wind speed and direction, presenting data in tables and hodographs for detailed analysis. Available to BFA members, it enhances flight planning and safety!

BFA Wind Explorer App

To get the Balloon Federation of America's Wind Explorer app, download it for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Designed for hot air balloon pilots, the app uses helium balloon data to provide wind speed and direction at various altitudes, aiding in flight planning and safety.

View this profile on Instagram

Balloon Federation of America (@bfaballooning) • Instagram photos and videos

View this profile on Instagram

@bfa_national_convention • Instagram photos and videos

View this profile on Instagram

@balloon_event_symposium • Instagram photos and videos

From our Members

Testimonials

As we all know, navigating the procedure to obtain your Class II Medical certificate can be difficult. The BFA leadership assisted me in this process and even put me in touch with a doctor at Aeromed. Thanks to the expertise shown by the BFA, I had greater insight and fewer headaches during what was an otherwise very stressful process.

Jamie Hohman

I’ve been a BFA member since 1994, joining shortly after earning my LTA Certificate. This introduced me to the many different aspects of Ballooning. I joined the Competition Division and then became interested in Gas Ballooning. Both have given me many new and different experiences in ballooning, thanks to the BFA.

Ken Draughn

The Balloon Federation of America has been an invaluable asset since I founded my ballooning company in 1977. With a national network of passionate individuals who are dedicated to both the sport of ballooning and its growth, the BFA plays a crucial role in shaping the future of my business and the continued success of our sport.

Ed Vanderhoef

Competing in the Hot Air Competition Division has challenged me to refine my flight techniques, improve my navigation skills, and develop a deeper understanding of weather patterns and strategic decision-making. The camaraderie among pilots, the high level of competition, and the support from mentors have all contributed to my growth—not just as a competitor, but as a more confident and capable balloonist. I’m truly grateful for the experiences and growth I’ve gained through this division, and I highly recommend it to any pilot looking to elevate their skills and passion for ballooning.

Patrick Cloyd

I am excited to start my journey as a private hot air balloon pilot! I have spent 2 years working up to this point and cannot express how much support and encouragement has been given by the ballooning community as a whole. I am also very excited that the BFA is giving me a free membership for my first year! I believe that this community will provide me with new learning opportunities, as well as lifelong friends!

Anna Wolfe

We’re Professionals!!

The BFA is a community of passionate balloonists eager to share our joy and knowledge of the sport with others.

Competition Division

Interested in ballooning competitions? The HACD sets rules, manages national scoring, and supports USA world qualifiers, playing a vital role within the BFA.

Professional Division

Looking to book a ride or gain exposure as a commercial balloon pilot? Click here to visit the PRO site-where all members commit to high standards of safety and ethical business practices.

Junior Balloonist

The BFA’s Junior Balloonist Division connects youth with balloon pilots through education, camps, and mentorship, inspiring the future of ballooning. Click here to learn more.

Gas Ballooning

The BFA Gas Division supports helium and hydrogen ballooning and oversees qualification for national and world gas competitions. Click here to visit the Gas Division.

GUIDING OUR FUTURE

BFA IS THE BEST
Organization

Safety is most important.
We value human dignity.
We support all common social values, respecting individuals and differing opinions.
We seek all contributions to the sport of ballooning for the common good.
We value education for all that seek knowledge in ballooning.
We insist on fairness in all competitive events.
We will recognize significant contributions to the sport and important achievements through individual endeavors.
The affairs of the BFA will be administered in a Democratic Forum with fairness, trust and integrity among the participants.