Our story begins in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where my grandparents retired from the Air Force just as the hot air ballooning scene was taking off. One day, my mother and a friend showed up at the balloon field with an unusual request—her friend wanted to skydive from a balloon. While no pilot agreed to that wild idea, they did offer something better: the chance to crew.

That first day crewing sparked something magical. My mother brought along her father, my grandfather, and he fell head over heels for ballooning. So much so that in the same year, he made two major purchases: a yellow hot air balloon and a Corvette. His daughters, with their characteristic humor, dubbed the balloon "Dad's Gone Bananas"—a name that stuck and would define our family's ballooning legacy.

Soon after, my grandmother also earned her pilot's license, and together they spent years floating over the landscapes they'd once served above in the Air Force. When it came time for a second balloon, they chose "My Blue Heaven." Later, when my grandfather was ready to retire from ballooning, my grandmother wasn't quite done with her love affair with the skies. She bought her own balloon and named it "I'm Bananas 2."

Now, carrying forward this multi-generational passion, I've taken up the call with my own balloon, "Grand Banana," honoring my role as grandson in this incredible family tradition of aeronauts.

The "Banana" name isn't just clever marketing—it's a heartfelt family tradition that spans generations. When my grandfather bought his first bright yellow balloon, his daughters looked at this retired Air Force officer who'd just purchased both a balloon and a Corvette in the same year and declared, "Dad's Gone Bananas!" The name was perfect, capturing both the balloon's sunny color and my grandfather's enthusiastic leap into his new passion.

That playful family spirit continued through the years. My grandmother's solo balloon became "I'm Bananas 2," showing that the love for flight—and the family sense of humor—ran deep. Today, with "Grand Banana," I'm continuing that legacy, honoring both the original "Dad's Gone Bananas" and my role as the grandson carrying forward this sweet family tradition.

Every time you see our distinctive yellow balloon floating over the Kansas City skies, you're witnessing more than just a flight—you're seeing a family story that started with love, laughter, and a grandfather who really did go bananas for ballooning.

Every flight we take is more than just a ride - it's a chance to create lasting memories and share our passion for aviation. Whether it's a romantic proposal, an anniversary celebration, or simply an adventure you'll never forget, we're honored to be part of your special moments.

Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail ensures that your experience with us will be everything you dreamed of and more. From the moment you contact us to your safe landing, we're dedicated to making your balloon adventure extraordinary.