Daily Inspiration: Meet Jason Jones

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jason Jones.

Hi Jason, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Old World Balloonery was established in 1975 by Dale Points. Today, Old World Balloonery is owned and operated by Jason and Kim Jones. I got started in hot-air ballooning at the young age of five as part of the chase crew for my mother, Annie Laurie Points in Indianola, Iowa. After many years of chasing, I started training to become a hot air balloon pilot in 1986. Since then, I have flown hot-air balloons all over the country and have logged over 2000 hours as pilot-in-command. We live in Overland Park, Kansas, and have great pride in Old World Balloonery. We are eager to share our passion and enthusiasm for the sport of hot-air ballooning with you.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Road has been pretty smooth. Weather is our biggest obstacle. Wind and rain keep us from flying. The Midwest can make it challenging because of the weather.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
A hot air balloon pilot is a licensed pilot through the FAA. There are approximately 5,000 active hot air balloon pilots in the country. Hot air balloons are registered aircraft through the FAA. So we have many of the same regulations that planes and other aircraft do. We fly hot air balloon rides but also train pilots, sell balloons, and advertise using balloons.

I am most proud of the longevity of the company. We have been flying balloons since 1975. What an awesome way to work and share a passion with other people.

What sets us apart from others are the little things we try and provide that not all companies do. Every couple or rider gets a first-time flyers certificate. We set up a small table and provide lite sacks after the flight. After the traditional champagne toast, our customers eat cheese and crackers and other lite snacks while we pack up the gear.

What are your plans for the future?
We plan to provide safe and fun balloon rides.

Pricing:

• Shared Basket $200.00 per person
• Sweetheart Ride $700.00 a couple

Contact Info:

• Email: pilot@oldworldballoonery.com
• Website: oldworldballoonery.com
• Instagram: @owb75
• Facebook: @oldworldballoonery
• Twitter: @OldWorldballoon