Welcome to the BFA!

The BFA is a 501c3 non-profit association dedicated to the advancement of the sport and science of lighter-than-air aviation, both hot air and gas balloons. Founded in 1961, membership in the BFA is open to anyone who shares a fascination with Lighter Than Air flight.

Join Us!

Become part of the future of ballooning! Membership is easy and affordable, and comes with privileges. Our top-flight magazine "BALLOONING Journal" is produced bi-monthly and is filled with interesting and informative articles covering many aspects of the sport. Joining the Competition Division will allow you to compete for National and International Championship teams and prizes. Opportunities for training and education, a monthly eNewsletter, achievement awards, and more great things are available for members.

Members can be pilots, crew, or just people who are interested in ballooning. If you would like to learn more, click here for more information, and to apply on-line for membership. To contact a BFA Board member, click here.

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Get Involved!

The BFA has several divisions established to support the ballooning community.

Hot Air Competition Division

If you are interested in the competitive side of the sport, the HACD is for you. From establishing rules and regulations, keeping score on a National level, and supporting the qualifying USA world pilots, the HACD is a very active part of the BFA. Click here for to link to the competition division.

Commercial Ride Operators

New to the BFA is the Professional Ride Operators Division (PRO). If you are looking to take a ride, or are a commercial balloon pilot looking for more exposure for your business, click here to go directly to their site.    PRO members all agree to a code of ethics in regards to safety and business operations.

Gas Division

The BFA Gas Division is involved in the sport of flying balloons usually filled with helium or hydrogen. This division manages the qualification processes for national and world gas competitions. Click here for to link to the gas division.

Junior Balloonists

"The Future of Ballooning" is no more apparent than getting youth involved in ballooning. The BFA's Junior Balloonist Division is dedicated to connecting kids with balloon pilots. Through education, summer camps, training, and mentorship, the division provides youth the ability to discover and grow in the sport of ballooning. Click here to go directly to their site.

Ballooning Clubs

The best way to get involved locally is to join a club. Clubs connect pilots and crew, and often organize fun flights and outings. Click here for our list of ballooning clubs.