Kim Kleist Pilot and co-owner of Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. - with flight time of 5000 hours Pilot in Command. “I’m one of the fortunate ones that has turned a passion into a profession. I have enjoyed sharing my knowledge and skill with our guests in the adventures of ballooning for over sixteen years. I have flown extensively throughout the Western United States and have had the opportunity to fly in Europe as well.”
Bob Swanson Pilot - “Bob received his balloon license in 1979 and has now logged over 6200 hours. He started by flying a commercial logo balloon in the western United States, from 'Nebraska to Alaska!' Since then he has traveled and flown extensively with the Bombard Society over the winter Alps of Chateau d'Oex, Switzerland, the medieval castles and chateaux of France, the lake district of Salzburg Austria, and the Tuscany region of Italy. Back in Napa Valley he has flown several notable people and
is dedicated to sharing his experience and knowledge with passengers by giving them the best flight he can that day.”
Gabe Gundling Pilot - "My passion for ballooning started as a young boy when my sister and I used to run out into my parent's field, as the balloons were flying over, with a sign that said 'BALLOONS LAND HERE'. That sign needed to work only once before I decided to forget the fireman's career and become a balloon pilot. My fascination with balloons waned during my teen years when the early mornings and the attempts at being cool kept me from balloons. After graduating from college I went to work for Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. as a chase crew. (Isn't that what you do when you graduate with a Degree in History?) As a crew member, whenever there was room in the balloon, I jumped in and got flight time. I eventually went to flight school, earned my own pilot's license, bought a small balloon for fun flights, but continued to acquire time in the bigger balloons at NVB, Inc. My dream has come true and I am enjoying flying our passengers and making new friends from all over the world. I guess I was born to fly
Ken Custis Pilot - Commercial Hot Air Balloon Pilot since 1986 with over 3500 Pilot in Command hours in Hot Air Balloons and Helicopters (U.S Army). "I took my first Hot Air Balloon Ride in 1980 and was immediately hooked (we should post a warning that "flying may be addictive"). Due to work (yes - a real job) and a transfer to the Midwest I was not able to complete my license requirements until 1986. I have now flown in all the States west of the Mississippi River (except Alaska), and have found the Napa Valley the most beautiful. I have flown for Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. since 1987. I enjoy sharing our sunrises, pointing out wineries and historical sites, providing a little history of the Napa Valley, and sharing the beauty of the Napa Valley with my passengers."
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 "The Chase Crew & Staff" - the best in the business! |
Jayne - Her name is Judy, but she goes by Jayne and we call her by her childhood nick name Jayne Waynie. She's the best at helping you make your reservations and providing lots of other information that will help you enjoy your stay in the valley. If you call during the weekend and she has to put you on hold, be patient, she is all by herself and will get back to you as soon as she can. Jayne is the perfect fit to our office staff and you will enjoy working with her, we sure do.
