2026 Pilot Bios



Sunsational

Kathy Reineke

Mahomet, IL

Sponsored by

Education Personnel Federal Credit Union


Years Flying Balloons - 42


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


Spending time with my family and friends and traveling.


Why did you become a pilot?


My husband got his license first and after he gave me a ride, I decided to get my license too.


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


The winds and finding a place to land


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


Travel the world and across the United States, experiencing new things and meeting wonderful people.


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


It's a safe sport and every flight is unique!