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Ryan Duff
My name is Ryan Duff, and I grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where my passion for hot air ballooning first took flight. As a second-generation pilot, I earned my private pilot certificate at the age of 19, followed by my commercial certificate at 21. I later relocated to the Midwest to pursue a degree in Meteorology, aiming to enhance my understanding of weather and its impact on balloon flight operations. For the past five years, I have lived in the Midwest and currently work as an Aviation Meteorologist in Cleveland, Ohio.
Throughout my flying career, I have flown passenger rides for both smaller regional operations and established commercial companies, including Seattle Ballooning. I also have experience operating corporate and commercial balloons, such as flying the RE/MAX balloon at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. In addition to commercial flying, I am an active competitor, having participated in the U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championships and numerous competitions across the country.
As a member of the Balloon Federation of America Board of Directors, my goal is to help grow the sport by supporting the next generation of pilots and strengthening the BFA’s presence within the ballooning community. I believe the BFA should play a leading role in providing mentorship, resources, and education for young pilots to ensure the continued growth and vitality of ballooning. As a young, second-generation pilot, I bring a unique connection to both the most experienced balloonists and the emerging community of younger pilots—an asset I will use to help foster the next generation of balloonists in our sport.
I strongly believe that the future of ballooning depends on young pilots becoming actively involved at the highest levels of our organizations. With your support, I hope to continue that mission as your At-Large representative on the BFA Board of Directors.
Thank you for your consideration.
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