2025 Pilot Bios



Joyful Noise

John Johlas

Ogden, IL

Sponsored by

McLane Midwest


Years Flying Balloons - 5


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


Vegetable gardening, hiking trails and trail biking.


Why did you become a pilot?


I loved balloons since my teens, had opportunities to crew and ride but finally decided I needed to become a pilot as a challenge to myself and spread the joy of hot air ballooning!


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


Tracking the weather and winds to plan fun and safe flights!


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


Have a great time building fun memories!


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


While being a pilot requires training and skill development, it is accessible to most and a great start is being a crew member!