2024 Pilot Bios



Stinky

John Hitron

Louisville, KY

Sponsored by

Bryant Industries


Years Flying Balloons - 46


When you are not flying, what do you enjoy doing?


Working on my kid's houses


Why did you become a pilot?


In 1977, my wife received a balloon ride and loved it. When she landed, she said we've got to get one. I said sure. She bought me a ride the following Christmas. I took the ride that spring. When we landed, I said " we've got to get one!" We bought our first balloon that night. My first ride cost $125, my second ride cost $8,000


What do you find is the most challenging about flying a hot air balloon?


Finding time and crew.


Short description of something interesting that ballooning has allowed you to do?


I have been to special events all around the country. I've been on the flight line at the Dayton Airshow ( got to party with the Blue Angles), been to joint forces day at joint base Andrews in Washington DC, flown in Reno ( I didn't shoot a man there) and met many wonderful and exciting and excited people.


What do you most want the public to know/understand about hot air balloons and flying them?


Ballooning is the ultimate way to get away, it alows you to leave this planet ( with your body) and gaze over all of the wonder earth has to offer.