2024 Pilot Bios



N Debt

Chad Kerns

Lincoln, IL

Sponsored by

Chris Griffin - Country Financial


Years Flying Balloons - 9


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


Avoiding Work, Taking trips with my kids and watching Oregon Duck sports!!


Why did you become a pilot?


Crewing for hot air balloons over the years made me want to fly even more! Becoming a pilot was the next natural step!!


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


Trying to find landing locations in Central IL when crops are in the fields! Most roads in the area have power lines so you have to get creative.


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


Ballooning has allowed me to meet some really cool people and introduce hot air balloons to many people who have never been around them up close.


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


Don't be afraid to come tell us HI!! If you see us landing nearby don't be afraid to ask if we need help. Most pilots love having extra help when packing up!!