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Blake Aldridge
My name is Blake Aldridge, and I’m proud to be a commercial balloon pilot based in Austin, Texas. My journey in ballooning began in my hometown of Longview, Texas, where I was fortunate to learn under the legendary Dr. Bill Bussey. With his mentorship and the support of Longview’s vibrant ballooning community, I earned my private pilot’s license at 17 and my commercial license at 18. Growing up surrounded by passionate aviators gave me a front-row seat to the magic that happens when a community rallies around this incredible sport.
Ballooning has taken me across the United States, introducing me to hundreds of remarkable people and unforgettable places. From soaring with mountain hoppers in Utah to competing alongside top pilots in Michigan, I’ve witnessed firsthand the camaraderie, excitement, and joy that ballooning brings to people from all walks of life. Here in the Southwest, we’re home to some of the nation’s most iconic events and organizations—like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, The Great Texas Balloon Race, and Rainbow Ryders. Our region sets trends and shapes the future of ballooning nationwide, and I believe our collective voice deserves to be heard at the highest levels.
Yet, it’s no secret that our sport faces serious challenges. Membership in the Balloon Federation of America has declined from over 4,000 in the 1990s to just over 1,900 as of 2023. Despite the enduring public fascination with balloons and a rise in commercial operations, we’re at a crossroads. The future of ballooning depends on our ability to adapt, innovate, and welcome new pilots into our fold.
With a background in economics and business, I’m ready to bring fresh ideas and practical solutions to the BFA. I believe we must break down the barriers to entry, leverage modern outreach strategies, and rebuild our community from the ground up. In an age where information travels at the speed of light, no one should have to “know someone” to discover the joy of ballooning. By targeting outreach and fostering inclusivity, we can ensure the next generation of pilots finds a thriving, supportive community waiting for them.
My passion lies in competition ballooning, but I recognize that without meaningful change, the future of our sport is at risk. As your Southwest Director, I will champion the interests of our region, fight for our pilots, and work tirelessly to empower the youth who will carry the torch for decades to come.
Thank you for considering me for the Southwest Director position.
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