Welcome to Sonoma Ballooning, where we don’t just offer flights – we offer unforgettable journeys that paint the Sonoma Valley in a whole new light. Our passion for ballooning began over 15 years ago. The magic of soaring above the vineyards at sunrise, the gentle sway of the basket, and the panoramic views of the valley’s rolling hills ignited a spark in us that we knew we had to share.
We’ve curated the most breathtaking launch sites, each one revealing a unique facet of Sonoma’s charm. From the golden hues of the vineyards to the majestic Mayacamas Mountains, every flight is a visual symphony.
Our team of experienced pilots, are more than just skilled aviators – they’re passionate storytellers who are eager to share the history, geology, and hidden gems of this remarkable region. We’re committed to providing you with not only a safe and comfortable flight, but also an enriching experience that connects you to the heart of Sonoma.
At Sonoma Ballooning, we believe that every flight is a celebration. Whether you’re marking a special occasion, fulfilling a lifelong dream, or simply seeking a unique adventure, we invite you to join us in experiencing the magic of Sonoma from above.
Mateo first became involved in the ballooning community at the age of 17 while working as a crew member. He quickly developed a passion for the sport and within four years, obtained his private pilot’s license and soon after, purchased his first balloon.
After years of flying in the Sonoma wine making region, he obtained his Commercial Pilot Certificate and became an FAA Certified pilot. Mateo always looks forward to sharing hot air ballooning in Sonoma with both locals and tourists alike.
Luis is the heartbeat of our daily operations, overseeing reservations and the field crew, but now you’ll find him taking charge in the sky, too. Having started his journey in 2012, Luis successfully transitioned from crew to “PIT” to fully licensed Commercial Pilot! A Sonoma State University graduate, he applies his business degree to maintain our top-tier company standards. With his attention to detail and charismatic personality, Luis ensures a smooth experience from the moment you call us to the moment you land.
When he’s not at his full time gig as a certified hot air balloon repairman, running inspections and repairing balloons, Ignacio, “Nacho” assists our team by not only piloting, but crewing when necessary. He’s had the pleasure of flying both private and commercial flights in Wine Country, Yolo County, Reno and Carson Valley, Nevada.
Nacho’s been in the hot air balloon industry since 2012 and has attended and worked hot air balloon festivals such as the Great Reno Balloon Race and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Mike is a 30+ year hot air ballooning veteran, and just like the rest of our pilots, has an impeccable safety record. A fun fact about Mike is that he once owned and operated a Santa Rosa hot air balloon tour business for 15 years, until deciding to move to Oregon with his wife Patty. However, as Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz would say, “there’s no place like home,” so they came back to beautiful Sonoma Wine County to be with their entire family!
Mike has flown in New Zealand and all of the western states at a variety ballooning events. In 2022, he earned first place at the Great Reno Balloon Race competing against 40+ pilots! Mike looks forward to flying our passengers, as well as helping to train a new generation of balloon pilots.
Sal knows the ins and outs of our balloons better than just about anyone. A true Sonoma Ballooning veteran, Sal started his journey with us on the ground, working tirelessly as a member of our chase crew. Through years of dedication, study, and passion for flight, he rose through the ranks to take his place in the basket as one of our trusted pilots.
When he isn’t navigating the winds over wine country, Sal keeps his competitive spirit alive on the field as a semi-pro soccer player. Whether he’s scoring goals or chasing sunrises, Sal brings focused energy and a winning attitude to everything he does.
Jeff comes from a family rooted in flying and is proud to carry on their decades long tradition. Not only is Jeff an FAA Certified pilot for hot air balloons, but he is an airplane pilot as well and formally served in the U.S. Coast Guard.
While Jeff has had the opportunity to travel and fly balloons coast to coast (even internationally), Northern California and Sonoma’s beautiful corridor has always held a special place in his heart and he’s happy to call Sonoma his home.
Jose’s passion for hot air ballooning shines bright when he takes to the skies. Like all of our pilots, he’s not afraid to chip in wherever needed and it’s been great watching his career take off (pun intended)!
To say Jose embraces the art of hot air ballooning to its fullest is truly an understatement! When he’s not at Sonoma Ballooning, he’s teaching art techniques to individuals of all ages and skill levels. He even hosts paint parties that often times include painting hot air balloons with scenic wine country views.
Ryan found his love for ballooning by enjoying the sport alongside his father at a very young age. He has been a pilot for 20 years and is going strong!
Not only does Ryan take to the skies via hot air balloon, but he also has an extensive background in the Air Force. He flew a C-21A then eventually transitioned to the KC-10! He became an instructor pilot, and upon retiring, has joined the reserves as a KC-10 pilot.
Sean’s energetic personality shines through in everything he does, from being a primary liaison for community land owners to greeting guests on the field. We are proud to announce that he has taken his passion for aviation to the next level and is now a Commercial Pilot!
If the view from above makes you want to stay forever, Sean can help make that happen, too. During the day, he doubles as a real estate agent helping clients find their dream homes. Whether he’s flying, boating, or selling homes, Sean represents the best of the Sonoma lifestyle.
Forget about Nurse Betty, we’ve got Doctor of Nursing Practice, Becky! In addition to her DNP, she’s s a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and ARNP. Her laser focus and attention to detail makes her the perfect “go to” for human resources.
Becky ensures that our pilots, crew and staff are up-to-date on flight operations, safety, rules and regulations, while keeping the positive team camaraderie that Sonoma Ballooning is known for. She embodies the “work and have fun” philosophy and that is why our team is such a tight-knit family.
Lisa has always been involved in industries that perpetuate excitement, outdoor adventure and community goodwill. Having worked within the Harley-Davidson® dealer network to helping first responders in the fire and law enforcement industries to hot air ballooning, this marketing maven operates at warp speed.
Lisa’s also our “facilitator of fun,” coordinating team building activities that foster an energetic and empowering work environment, which translates to an extraordinary ballooning adventure for our guests.
Travis is an engineer by trade, so it’s only natural that he enjoys the mechanics and technical aspects of hot air ballooning. He’s also an endurance runner, so chasing balloons is a fun hobby for him.
In addition, Travis has worked in the wine industry here in our region, so of course will have some winery suggestions handy if you need them!
Aaron is currently learning the ropes from his Sonoma Ballooning family.
On occasion you may catch him greeting guests, hanging with the chase crew or assisting post-flight!
Brooklyn the wonder dog rescue likes riding in the truck with the crew and pops into the office for treats. He recommends visiting Larson Family Winery and trying their Three Lab Cab! The dogs there will welcome you with open paws. 😉