PILOT/OPERATIONS MANAGER

Ballooning is in Cooper Williams’ DNA. A third-generation commercial pilot, Cooper proudly continues the legacy started by his grandfather Keith in 1985 and carried on by his father Andy, who became a commercial pilot at just 22.

Cooper joined the Galena On The Fly crew at age 14—years before he could even drive. From backing up trailers to managing launch sites, he quickly became a core part of the team. Once old enough, he began formal flight training with his dad and expanded his instruction with top pilots from Arizona, including Taylor Aldous, Jesse Roholt, Shawn Wix, and Kevin Flanagan.

He earned his private pilot license in October 2024 and spent the winter flying solo in Phoenix, building hours in his own balloon with his crew chief (and girlfriend) Linzy, and their balloon dog, Blue. He also gained commercial experience flying the Chick-fil-A balloon over the city with Kevin during busy drive-time hours.

In June 2025, after years of dedication, Cooper earned his commercial license. Today, he serves as Operations Manager and Crew Chief for Galena On The Fly, co-owns On The Fly Inflatables with his father, and plays a key role in events like the Great Galena Balloon Race.

Now taking flight as Galena On The Fly’s newest pilot, Cooper is proud to carry the family tradition skyward—offering unforgettable experiences above the Galena landscape and living out the dream he’s had since childhood.