2025 Pilot Bios



Papa's Joy

Ed DeVore

Covington, IN

Sponsored by

CrossCountry Mortgage - Missy Holst Loan Originator


Years Flying Balloons - 5


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


Spending time with family and friends. Watching my kids do their thing, taking in baseball games, board games and movies.


Why did you become a pilot?


I enjoy challenges and adventure so it was a natural progression for me moving from crewing to piloting.


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


Being patient. Waiting for the weather, not rushing thru the process or giving up on a landing site too early.


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


It's given me the opportunity to share my experience with others and to meet some amazing peoeple.


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


Our landings will likely have a small bounce but we are in control, everything is fine. When you ask " do you need help?" we take that as you wanting to come assist with taking the balloon down and packing it away, not that we are in any kind of distress. We, all balloonists, are glad to have you come assist when we land, ask questions and get involved.