Like any sport or endeavor, the future is in the youth of the country. Without younger folks getting involved in a sport or activity, the current participants grow old and eventually, there is no one left to carry on. The sport of ballooning is no different. As part of a larger education effort, Quad A participates in many initiatives to help young folks get interested and involved in the sport of ballooning. Youth are encouraged to take an active role in AAAA, including our ground schools and seminars.

Learning to Fly

If you are interested in becoming a pilot, did you know that you can get a student pilot certificate for a balloon or a glider at age 14? For all other student pilot certificates, you must be at least 16 years old. If you’re interested in getting started, contact our ground school registrar at registration@hotairballooning.org.

Youth Balloon Program

AAAA has received a donation of a complete hot air balloon system from the estate of Mardi Cone. This balloon, named Lil, can be brought to your school or event for a static display. When weather permits, youth can be introduced to the enjoyable teamwork required to make balloon flights possible. Members of AAAA may also be available for presentations for your youth organization. Contact the Youth Balloon Coordinator or Community Relations with your request.

Youth

Junior Balloonist Camps

2023 DatesRio Grande Camp – Albuquerque, NM – July 8th – 13th, 2023

Working with the Balloon Federation of America, AAAA has been the “host” for the Junior Balloonist Camp in Albuquerque for several years. Every summer, camps are available for young people ages 14 through 18. This camp provides experience with the science and history behind ballooning and includes some hands-on instruction on flying and crewing with real hot air balloons. Check out the Rio Grande Balloon Camp page on Facebook, E-mail us, or head to BFA.net to enroll in an upcoming camp.

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