Thompson Aire Guest Book.
Below are actual comments posted by our passengers. Anyone can have a testimonials page with several good letters they once received 5 years ago. Here you can see that Thompson AIRE consistently does a fantastic job over and over and over for years. If you see a bad review anywhere it is probably not true. Honestly there is no better balloon company in Florida and don't take our word for it,,,,, Read what our passengers have said! Thanks from "Capt Jeff"
If you have flown with us and would like to share your story Click Here.
There are a bunch of emails here on this page. If for any reason this is not enough (I can't imagine you would need more) we have another page where you can see HUNDREDS of them. Remember we have been doing this for 45 years and flying passengers professionally for 30 years. Here is a FULL LIST of passenger reviews.
From: RUTH BABB
5 Stars is simply not enough
Beyond my expectations.
My mother and I celebrated her 90th birthday aloft with Capt. Jeff. She has since told everyone within earshot that it was, by far, the highlight of her life! Jeff made certain that every step of the adventure was tailor-made for her (she has difficulty walking/standing). The seats in the gondola were perfect to ensure she could see and take part in the entire experience. I honestly would recommend Thompson Aire to anyone who ever considered taking a hot air balloon ride. It was thrilling throughout; there was never a single moment when we didn't feel completely safe. And Capt. Jeff was a hoot! Thanks again, Thompson Aire for making my mom's birthday a truly magical experience!
From: Kelsey
5 Stars is simply not enough
YOU MUST DO THIS!
If going for a cruise in a hot air balloon is on your bucket list (which it definitely should be!) then these are the guys to go with!
It’s obvious that the pilots and ground crew are passionate about flying- it oozes from their pores- which makes the experience so much more than just a ride. They were so easygoing and enjoyable it was like hanging out with old friends. At the same time they were super professional when it came to safety and that was a great feeling. They’re super proud of their squeaky clean safety record and that’s definitely a good thing to have when you’ll be in a basket thousands of feet in the air. FWI- My boyfriend and I are both afraid of heights but balloons are so different, there was no issues for either of us about the height thing. The fire was a bit intimating for me though, but I’m a bit weird...It was so worth it though.
Capt Jeff can tell you whatever you want to know about flying balloons; the science and history of it all is pretty neat! I won’t go into the flying experience, that’s some magic you’ll have to experience yourself 😉 but we got some amazing photos and Channing took some hilarious candid ones when I asked him to get our pic before we took off lol.
Thank you guys again for an awesome morning!!
From: DENISE JONES
5 Stars is simply not enough
There are no words.
My family did this for my birthday today. There are a lot of places that I researched but just by speaking with Adam made me choose this company. And then after meeting Master pilot Jeff and the crew I recommend them to anyone. They made this the best birthday gift ever. The View was amazing the fellowship was even better. Thank you guys for a great time.
From: Jacqueline Flores
5 Stars
Simply one of the top 10 things in my life!
My husband surprised me with a private hot air balloon ride this morning and needless to say I was super nervous. Jeff and Juan made me feel comfortable and answered all my questions before the flight and I could tell they truly enjoyed what they do. They made me feel like it was their first time flying with us and were just as excited as we were. Jeff was witty and funny and Juan was sweet and helpful. I am so grateful to have had this experience period and especially with Jeff as our pilot. You get what you paid for and this was totally worth it. As I became more comfortable in the air, the jokes, laughter, and sightseeing became more apparent and the smiles were genuine. It truly was an amazing time, and I would recommend this company over any other any time!
From: Kathleen M Appel
5 Stars is simply not enough
YOU MUST DO THIS!
For my mother-in-laws’s 100th Christmas we decided to surprise her with a hot air balloon ride; something she has always wanted to do but thought she would never experience given her advanced age. My daughter found Jeff and Thompson Aire Balloon Rides and from the minute we spoke to Jeff on the phone explaining our circumstance Jeff assured us he could accommodate Mom with no problem. The look on Mom’s face when we first told her about the ride was one of unbelievable joy. Only to be surpassed when we lifted off the ground and Mom realized her dream became a reality. Mom was worried she was not in good enough physical condition to take a ride but Jeff and his team made her feel safe and secure the entire trip and handled Mom with kid glove care. The flight was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced – it felt as if we were rising with the morning sun. The ride was so smooth and quiet you could hear dogs barking on the ground below us. And the landing – Jeff touched the balloon down like we landed on air! I can’t say enough wonderful things about Jeff and the crew of Thompson Aire, this is something we’ll remember and talk about the rest of our lives!
From: Amy Bohrod
5 Stars
Beyond my expectations.
Simply the best balloon company? Absolutely, positively without a doubt! For our first Valentine's Day as husband and wife I gave my husband a certificate for a hot air balloon ride with Thompson Aire. Due to our own scheduling conflicts and the weather we had to wait to fly but it was so well worth it. It was one of the most breath taking and awe inspiring experiences of my life. In one of the photos you can see housing developments on one side and pristine untouched land on the other side which extends out for 15 miles. While other balloons (from other companies) flew over the housing developments Jeff Thompson took us over the beautiful and peaceful swamps and forests. Jeff's brother Jon piloted the other balloon and followed the same course. It was so quiet we could hear the sounds of the wildlife. I had no idea that a balloon pilot could have so much control over their aircraft - if they know what they're doing. After launching and floating peacefully up high for awhile, Jeff took us down to where we came within inches of the swamp (on purpose) and gently glided over it. He then lifted up again above the trees. It was glorious! My husband described it as one of the most graceful, peaceful and exhilarating experiences. Jeff has been flying for over 40 years. He's not only extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the art of ballooning, but he was also able to answer all of our questions about the interesting things we were seeing on the ground. It was an adventure, an education, and great entertainment - Jeff has LOTS of wonderful corny jokes. He went WAY above and beyond our expectations - literally and figuratively. There are some adventures that I have experienced in my life that were fun but I don't plan on doing again, like sky diving. But we have every intention to fly in a balloon again. If I'm lucky I'll be doing it with Thompson Air.
From: Patricia Wingate
5 Stars
Beyond my expectations.
Took flight February 6, 2018 and it was an amazing experience. My husband was a little reluctant at first but now agrees it was an exciting ride . We would highly recommend taking a balloon ride and give our highest recommendation to Thompson Aire. We found Jeff and our pilot John to be very knowledgeable , professional and personable. Great, great outing. ???
From: Roxanne and David Strand
5 Stars
YOU MUST DO THIS!
Jeff and Juan were very knowledgeable and very good at making you feel at ease on taking in this experience. We had a great time.....I strongly suggest if this even a possibility to go do it!!!! Very experienced and his jokes aren’t too bad either!!! I would definitely would go again with them....Thanks for the great experience!!!!
Heather Phillips
Okeechobee FL
These are true professionals and they love what they do!
Yes I have flown with you!
Jeff, We wanted to say thanks again for a magical experience! Our hot air balloon flight was how we chose to celebrate our anniversary. As I shared with you, I did a lot of internet research prior to booking and was impressed with the personalization of your website, the ease of making a reservation and the wonderful testimonials. Benjamin was nervous due to his fear of heights but you, Captain Kim and your parents prepared him for the flight and within 5 minutes of being in the air he was fine. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this experience. The flight was even more than we had imagined! The lift off was motionless and the landing was PERFECT!! The views while floating were amazing, we captured some beautiful pictures. Even your bad jokes were great!! Thank you not only for the MAGICAL experience but for the passion you put into every flight and every customer interaction. Your family owned operation is top notch and we will be returning customers. Two very happy passengers, Heather & Benjamin Taylor
Andrew Lemonofides
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Jeff What a morning! What a phenomenal experience! The flight with you earlier today totally surpassed our expectations. Clearly that had much to do with your friendly banter, but also it is just so hard to describe how exhilarating an experience it was, amazingly quiet, superb views and just totally amazing. We were "blown away" with the whole experience end to end. Thank you, to you and your team, it was a massive highlight from our stay here in Florida.
Andrew, Anne, Alexander and William Finchampstead, UK
Jennifer Neal
Port Huron MI United States
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
Jeff and Juan were amazing. They work together like a well oiled machine!!! Jeff is so passionate about what he does and will answer any question you have and keep you chuckling with his rather bad jokes. You never know when there's one coming up lol. It is a beautiful and breathtaking experience! Afterwards you are treated to a fabulous breakfast buffet.
Thanks again Jeff and Juan for keeping us safe and smiling
Joseph Pikey
Kennett MO USA
These are true professionals and they love what they do!
I would do it again tomorrow..
Jeff and his parents are truly amazing people. They make you feel like part of the family from the time they pick you up until the end when it's time to say goodbye. Jeff don't just give you a ride in his balloon, he explains every little detail from start to finish about everything. My wife is afraid of heights and went on the ride, Jeff does such a good job on the take off and landing an the flight itself that my wife wasn't a bit afraid and said she wants to go again with Jeff.
You will not be disappointed.
Bill Vonada
Bradenton Fl US
These are true professionals and they love what they do!
Yes I have flown with you!
Truly a unique experience. This family is completely immersed in this business.
They will make this an unforgettable experience for you!
Greg, Maria & Eric Eckley
Palm coast Fl
Personal, Professional and GREAT family fun!
Yes I have flown with you!
My husband took me in a flight on our 25th wedding anniversary. Today, we celebrated our 30th anniversary plus our son's high school graduation by a balloon ride with Capt. Jeff. We couldn't think of a more memorable way to celebrate these 2 very important times!!! What a beautiful ride.
Thank u Thompson Aire
The Mercy's
Tampa FL USA
Five Stars is simply not enough! ***********
I would do it again tomorrow..
We wanted to send out a quick thank you to your family for making our trip truly magical! The ride itself was amazing, with all of the beautiful vistas, but what made it truly memorable was the staff. We felt like we were spending the day hanging out with family and friends. Thank you Thompson family and staff for making it so memorable!
The Mercy's
Derek & Alejandra
Orlando FL USA
These are true professionals and they love what they do!
Yes and I can not wait!!!
What a GREAT experience!!! I chose Thompson Aire when I decided to propose to my girlfriend because they had a proposal package that no other balloon company was offering. We've always wanted to go on a flight... So, on her birthday, I drove her to the meeting site and surprised her with a hot air balloon ride; she was so excited! Little did she know, I was going to propose :). Capt. Jeff was our pilot that morning; he was very entertaining and knowledgeable; GREAT JOKES too!. Capt. McCourt was serving as the balloon "chase/g round crew" who was secretly transporting my parents and my girlfriends two sons to a secret spot... About 30 minutes into the flight, Capt. Jeff began to pretend the radio wasn't working properly, and said he needed to get closer to the ground to receive a message from the ground crew. As soon as we flew over the dense portion of trees, there stood the ground crew with a sign "Will you Marry me?"; when she turned around, there I was on one knee with her ring. She was both shocked and blown away! She said YES :). We later landed for a champagne toast and a breakfast buffet. These guys are true professionals; they pulled everything off perfectly! I'm glad I booked my flight with them and will recommend them to anyone seeking a balloon flight; it is an experience we will never forget!
Thanks again Capt. Jeff and McCourt; you guys are awesome and make a great team!!!
Brett Livingston
Orlando FL USA
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
Yes I have flown with you!
I wanted to celebrate my wife’s birthday with a hot-air balloon flight. I have heard of Thompson Aire on the radio station for a few years. I researched Thompson’s website as well as two other balloon companies. It was easy to make the choice to go with Thompson Aire. Now for my experience. On the confirmation call the evening before the flight I informed Captain Jeff Thompson that this was a special event. Although we were celebrating my wife’s birthday, I explained that she doesn’t like to be the center of attention. Captain Jeff promised that they would recognize the event without going over the top. They kept their promise with a tasteful birthday recognition and a unique trinket for a birthday gift. We arrived early and my wife only found out that we were taking a balloon flight at the pre-flight briefing. Captain Jeff explained everything so well in the pre-flight and introduction that my wife started to get excited about the adventure. There were two other couples (all strangers) flying that day. Captain Jeff and his crew had us laughing and talking with each other in minutes. They continued the pre-flight explanations outside before we loaded up in there roomy vans to head for the launch site. It was a short drive and the ground crew chatted with us and answered all the questions we had. The crew entertained us with additional information about our upcoming flight and ballooning in general. It was exciting to watch the crew set up and inflate the balloons for the day. They worked well as a team and continued to elevate our confidence in their abilities. Time to climb aboard for lift-up. Getting into the balloon was really easy. We floated gently away and watched the ground crew shrink away beneath us. Balloon flight is difficult to describe but I will try: INCREDIBLE, EXHILIRATING, PHENOMENAL, RELAXING, SOOTHING, SPIRITUAL, AWE-INSPIRING, FUN, FUN AND FUN! The limited number of passengers allowed us to interact with our pilot throughout the entire flight. Two Thompson Aire balloons took flight that day and what luck, we were assigned to Captain Jeff’s balloon. This is at the very top of the list of incredible things that I have done. You could not pry the grin off my face with a crowbar. I simply could not stop enjoying myself. My wife was loving it. She says it is the best birthday gift she has ever received. We passed over several neighborhoods, waving at the people below. We even chatted with people on the ground as we floated by. We could hear the call of morning birds in the wooded areas we crossed over. Captain Jeff glided us in for a silky smooth landing followed by a classic champagne toast and more entertainment with the crew and other passengers. The breakfast buffet at the resort gave us all a chance to share how remarkable the flights had been. Both balloons had taken to similar flight paths but at different altitudes so we had stories to share. Then more entertainment from Captain Jeff and the crew. They shared funny experiences while we enjoyed breakfast together. The first flight certificates added to the fun of the day. The website at Thompson Aire is very informative and accurate in the attempt to describe the adventure. But words cannot truly convey the experience that you will have. This is my first balloon flight and when we go again I will choose Thompson Aire. I have been told that there are cheaper balloon flights available.
The experience we had with Thompson Aire makes them my only choice.
Debbie Coomber
Khartoum Kh Sudan
Personal, Professional and GREAT family fun!
Yes I have flown with you!
Wow - absolutely fantastic balloon trip. Impressed with the professionalism, expertise, passion and excitement. One of the best days of my life 🙂
Thank you!
Donna LeBlanc
New Bedford Ma
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
I would do it again tomorrow..
My Husband and I Absolutely Loved Our Experience! It was the most Amazing Calming Beautiful Ride♡ A Smile was had the Whole Time♡ Pilot Jeff and his helper Juan were Awesome and Very Friendly This is a must do!!!!! ♡ Ty
Denise hodgson
Clevland En United kingdom
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
Wow Wow Wow...& WOW!!
Just got back from my first ever hot air balloon experience, the ThompsonAire family are so good at there jobs I really felt safe and secure with captain Doug ,and the ground crew are really special! Just. Do. It. ,!
Jeryl & Scott
St. Cloud FL USA
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
Wow Wow Wow...& WOW!!
This outfit could not be more professional, knowledgeable or friendly. I am recommending Thompson Aire to all my friends.
Andy Shaw
York En England
These are true professionals and they love what they do!
I would do it again tomorrow..
My wife and I had a very memorable experience thanks to Jeff and his team jokes and all. My wife was a little nervous before we set off, but once off the ground she felt safe and loved every minute. Such a lovely peaceful way to travel can see why Jeff loves his job so much. thanks for a great morning.
Ivan Kahana
Orlando FL USA
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
Yes I have flown with you!
What a magical and perfect birthday/proposal experience!! Thank you Jeff, for making sure my proposal surprise was better than I could have imaged! Lauren and the kids and I, now have an amazing memory to cherish for the rest of our lives! Words truly can't express the quiet beauty of floating in the air while watching a gorgeous sunrise (although our pics and video sure help!!) Highly recommend to anyone considering the experience!!
Marty Wisher
Cape Coral FL United States
Words simply do not do justice.
A MUST DO!
Yes I have flown with you!
What an amazing experience for my 50th birthday! A hot air balloon ride was on my bucket list and Thompson Aire certainly made it a total joy. Everyone likes to tease pilot Jeff about his balloon jokes ( and he never runs short of them) , but it's his knowledge of the history of ballooning that was impressive. Well, the history and the lovely air ride. It's family run, so Jeff's mom, dad, and brothers were all there and they make you feel like family. Thank you for a lovely birthday ride!
W. Gail Custode
I tried to write this testimonial in a way that didn’t sound boastful but instead, I’m just going to be brutally honest because reviews and testimonials are read to help people make decisions. After reviewing the websites of many Balloon Companies in the area, this one seemed to have the most experienced pilots and the best track record…It delivered even MORE than it promised for our family of 5. We were able to participate in set-up and take down. Our balloon had seats, other companies required standing. We flew farther, higher, and longer (over an hour of air time) than at least a dozen other Balloons we could see from the air. We had a balloon for just our family while other companies packed their baskets with people. We had a Champagne Toast after the flight. We had a sit down buffet breakfast (with an Omelet Chef) in air-conditioned comfort after the flight. We were encouraged to ask questions and had them answered. We learned A LOT! There was something for EVERYONE from the youngest to the oldest of us.
WE WOULD DO IT AGAIN!
Captain Jeff and Kim are the BEST!
Don Minassiian
Mahwah NJ USA
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
I would do it again tomorrow..
My wife, myself and my adult son (who is developmentally disabled) had the pleasure of flying with Thompson Aire and we couldn't be happier. My wife has a fear of heights and is somewhat claustrophobic, but from the outset, her fears were eliminated by the professionalism of John, Jeff and their crew. Their attention to detail cannot be overstated. I hope to use their services the next time we vacation in Florida and would not hesitate to recommend them to friends and family alike (we've already recommended them to to an individual we met this evening.) My son i s still talking about the flight and his experience. I'm sure everyone will hear about it when we return home. While admittedly this is the first time we've ever flown in a hot air balloon, I can't imagine another company doing it any better or making us feel any safer. Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended, 5 stars doesn't do them justice! THANKS AGAIN'!!!!!!!!
Samantha Dean
Rogers Ar
United States
Personal, Professional and GREAT family fun!
I would do it again tomorrow..
This was absolutely amazing. I would do it again in a heartbeat. I am normally scared of heights, I can hardly stand on top of tall things without getting nervous. But this was so different. I felt safe and comfortable in the basket. The view was extraordinary and the staff is very professional and personable. I would recommend this to anyone. Capt Kim and Barbara were amazing. Thank you so much for this experience.
David and Sharon Powell
ZELLWOOD FL United States
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
I would do it again tomorrow..
May 30th 2016
Wanted to give my wife something different for her birthday. Thought a balloon ride would be nice. Researched which companies are the best and chose ThompsonAire because they had smaller groups. It was the best choice! We had a wonderful time. Very safe, professional, except the jokes, knowledgeable, everything was so great! Captain Jeff was great and so knowledgeable about ballooning and the area. Picked a spot to land from 13 miles away and hit it to a yard. Amazing...we would definitely do it again and recommend it to anyone!!!
Dan Swanson
AVONPARK Fl
Must be one of the top ten things in my life!
Yes I have flown with you!
May 8 2016
Capt. Jeff made a day that I knew was going to be hard on my mother a day she would never forget On May 8th 2015 she lost her husband and I lost my father They both always wanted to fly in a balloon I miss my opportunity for him Capt. Jeff completely put my mom at ease without even knowing what had happened a year ago She didn't stop talking about the flight for days to come and said she was at peace with everything for the hour flight Thank you Thompson Air that flight meant more to me than you will ever know Thank you Dan Swanson
Keith & nicola clough
Haslingden Lancashire uk
These are true professionals and they love what they do!
Yes I have flown with you!
May 13 2016
I wanted to thank Jeff for making my wife's birthday balloon flight an amazing experience she has a fear of heights which never bothered me once during the flight and we cannot wait to come back to Orlando and do it all again. amazing a must for everyone 100% even some of is jokes
Clark and Lisa Fowler
charlotte NC United States
Five Stars is simply not enough! ***********
Wow Wow Wow...& WOW!!
Other words to describe this experience breathtaking. Celebrated our 23rd anniversary would do it again. My husband has a fear of heights and he had no problems. Very professional and friendly and knows what they are doing. Pilot was very entertaining as well Would recommend and have to anyone including if you have children.
Irving, Rebecca, Ava and Bonnie
Halifax NS Canada
Personal, Professional and GREAT family fun!
I would do it again tomorrow..
Our hot air balloon flight with the folks from Thompson Aire was extraordinary! The flight was serene and the views were breathtaking. This is a must do! The Thompson family has decades of experience and are highly skilled and professional...not to mention funny! We can't thank Jeff, Jon, Doug, Jim, Connie and Juan enough for the experience they provided us. We will be back!
Cathy Kemmerlin
Darlington SC USA
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
I would do it again tomorrow..
Oct 26 2015
What a great time! No anxiety whatsoever! Was the most peaceful experience that we have ever had. Jeff was not only a great captain but was very entertaining as well. Flying in a hot air balloon has always been an item on my bucket list. Glad to say I did it and can't wait to do it again with Thompson Aire. Very professional and knowledgeable group of guys! I actually surprised my fiancé with this adventure and he has thanked me over and over and said it was so awesome!! Of course he thinks I am too for coming up with the idea!!! Thanks again to Je ff, Kimmy, and everyone else at Thompson for being a 5 star company and for making our experience something that we will never forget! See you next year!
Jacqueline Harris
The Villages and Boca Raton Fl USA
Must be one of the top ten things in my life!
Yes I have flown with you!
This was, by far, one of the most thrilling and beautiful experiences one can ever have. Jeff, the owner and our pilot, made the experience interesting, educational and absolutely fun. This was a Bucket List wish and Thompson Aire not only made the wish a reality but one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Everyone associated with the company was professional and warm. Thank you Jeff! Did I say it was thrilling and wonderful? Thank you again Jeff! I must fly again with Thompson Aire...and soon.
Peter,Tina,Gemma and Amy Durkin
Kent
England
Personal, Professional and GREAT family fun!
Yes I have flown with you!
We wanted to get married while on our trip to Florida and could not think of a better place to do that than in a balloon. Captain Jeff was great, very entertaining and professional. The whole day from unpacking the balloon to leaving after breakfast was a real experience and even I should be able to remember my wedding anniversary date!
Donna LeBlanc
New Bedford Ma
Words simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
I would do it again tomorrow..
My Husband and I Absolutely Loved Our Experience! It was the most Amazing Calming Beautiful Ride♡ A Smile was had the Whole Time♡ Pilot Jeff and his helper Juan were Awesome and Very Friendly This is a must do!!!!! ♡ Ty
Debbie Coomber
Khartoum Kh Sudan
Personal, Professional and GREAT family fun!
Yes I have flown with you!
Wow - absolutely fantastic balloon trip. Impressed with the professionalism, expertise, passion and excitement. One of the best days of my life 🙂 Thank
Gabriel & Lorena
Sao Paulo SP Brasil
Must be one of the top ten things in my life!
Yes I have flown with you!
Absolutely Fantastic! One of the best experiences I've ever had! Thought it would be an unforgettable surprise to propose in a balloon... It couldn't have been any better!! The balloon ride is an amazing experience and everyone should try it if they have the chance. Our pilot Jeff made the ride even more special. From the moment he picked us up from the hotel till when he came back with my sunglasses the next day. He's so passionate about balloons, you can tell he loves what he does, and I'm certain he'll tell you his impressive story and resume! He knows so much about ballooning and the area, he'll make you feel safe, keep you entertained, and let you enjoy the beautiful scenery! Pictures and video came out perfect. Thank you so much Capt. Jeff and Thompson Aire Team
Brett Livingston
Orlando FL USA
rWords simply do not do justice. A MUST DO!
Yes I have flown with you!
Aug 23 2015
I wanted to celebrate my wife’s birthday with a hot-air balloon flight. I have heard of Thompson Aire on the radio station for a few years. I researched Thompson’s website as well as two other balloon companies. It was easy to make the choice to go with Thompson Aire. Now for my experience. On the confirmation call the evening before the flight I informed Captain Jeff Thompson that this was a special event. Although we were celebrating my wife’s birthday, I explained that she doesn’t like to be the center of attention. Captain Jeff promised that they would recognize the event without going over the top. They kept their promise with a tasteful birthday recognition and a unique trinket for a birthday gift. We arrived early and my wife only found out that we were taking a balloon flight at the pre-flight briefing. Captain Jeff explained everything so well in the pre-flight and introduction that my wife started to get excited about the adventure. There were two other couples (all strangers) flying that day. Captain Jeff and his crew had us laughing and talking with each other in minutes. They continued the pre-flight explanations outside before we loaded up in there roomy vans to head for the launch site. It was a short drive and the ground crew chatted with us and answered all the questions we had. The crew entertained us with additional information about our upcoming flight and ballooning in general. It was exciting to watch the crew set up and inflate the balloons for the day. They worked well as a team and continued to elevate our confidence in their abilities. Time to climb aboard for lift-up. Getting into the balloon was really easy. We floated gently away and watched the ground crew shrink away beneath us. Balloon flight is difficult to describe but I will try: INCREDIBLE, EXHILIRATING, PHENOMENAL, RELAXING, SOOTHING, SPIRITUAL, AWE-INSPIRING, FUN, FUN AND FUN! The limited number of passengers allowed us to interact with our pilot throughout the entire flight. Two Thompson Aire balloons took flight that day and what luck, we were assigned to Captain Jeff’s balloon. This is at the very top of the list of incredible things that I have done. You could not pry the grin off my face with a crowbar. I simply could not stop enjoying myself. My wife was loving it. She says it is the best birthday gift she has ever received. We passed over several neighborhoods, waving at the people below. We even chatted with people on the ground as we floated by. We could hear the call of morning birds in the wooded areas we crossed over. Captain Jeff glided us in for a silky smooth landing followed by a classic champagne toast and more entertainment with the crew and other passengers. The breakfast buffet at the resort gave us all a chance to share how remarkable the flights had been. Both balloons had taken to similar flight paths but at different altitudes so we had stories to share. Then more entertainment from Captain Jeff and the crew. They shared funny experiences while we enjoyed breakfast together. The first flight certificates added to the fun of the day. The website at Thompson Aire is very informative and accurate in the attempt to describe the adventure. But words cannot truly convey the experience that you will have. This is my first balloon flight and when we go again I will choose Thompson Aire. I have been told that there are cheaper balloon flights available. The experience we had with Thompson Aire makes them my only choice.
Seun Sotinwa
Atlanta, GA
April 14 2015
I awakened my soon to be fiancée advising her we would be going on a swamp tour, we sat sleepy at the Disney Caribbean Disney resort bus stop, myself excited knowing I was about to propose and my adventurous girlfriend falsely expecting to walk through a swamp and spot a few gators thinking nothing could top the day at the magic kingdom before now. Jeff arrives and pick us up, immediately treating us like old friends, we felt so comfortable and entertained by him on the drive to the meet up spot at main gate resort. Needless to say she realizes it’s a balloon ride and is ecstatic. Upon arriving we met up with others expecting a thrill and are given an introduction. We get back into the van ready for the balloon ride with John our pilot who cracks us up and Ms. Connie Jeff and John’s mum full of wisdom.
I’m comfortable the whole time and don’t feel the need to divulge I have a terrible or as some have said severe fear of heights. We get to the field and assist with getting the hot air balloon filled up which Is quite exciting and before you know it we are about to set sail into the clouds. I’m initially fine and as we soar I start to get nervous(ring burning a hole in my pocket), John our pilot immediately notices my body language and checks on me, he realizes I have a fear of heights, understands I’m about to propose and immediately starts to talk with me, joke with me easing my fears preparing me for the question I’m about to ask my girlfriend. When it’s time I pop the question and my fiancée is thrilled, all of my fear is gone having received a yes! And knowing I’m in John’s capable hands I begin to truly enjoy the this beautiful flight. I will say if you have a fear of heights you have nothing to worry about in a balloon not with Jeff and John at the helm. Take it from a man who can’t climb past the third floor without crawling on staircases with a view. It was truly a magical experience more magic than the magic kingdom and not only will I not forget it I can’t wait to experience it again the next time we are in Florida.
Njide and Seun!
Thank you, John!
Thank you, Jeff!
John, Jeff, my grandkids will hear your bad jokes that warmed Njide and I’s hearts!
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