With over 5,500 hours in the sky and 38 years of experience, Andy is a seasoned pilot who has flown everything from passenger balloons to iconic corporate shapes across more than 18 states.

 

Andy’s ballooning journey began at just 14 years old in central Iowa, where he learned to fly under the guidance of his father at the National Balloon Classic. After earning both his Private and Commercial Pilot ratings, he spent his youth flying the family’s sport balloon and traveling to weekend competitions across the Midwest.

 

During college, Andy joined Wiederkehr Balloons in St. Paul, MN, where he served as Chief Pilot for the Mycogen Seed contract, covering a nine-state region. He also flew the eye-catching Kentucky Fried Chicken special shape balloon at events nationwide.

 

After graduation, Andy moved to Phoenix, Arizona to train in passenger balloon operations. He flew year-round for several companies in the “Valley of the Sun,” where he continues to operate winter flights today.

In 1999, Andy brought his passion for flight to Galena, teaming up with Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa to offer balloon rides as a guest experience. On April 13, 2000, Galena On The Fly took its first flight—and over 2,000 flights later, the magic is still soaring.

 

Andy invites you to “come take a ride with us” and experience the quiet wonder of ballooning above the rolling hills and scenic countryside of Jo Daviess County.