Mr. Hugh Ehrlich, a native Californian, founder/owner and Chief Pilot, has been ballooning for over 30 years and has his FAA Commercial Pilot's license (required for all balloonists) because hot air balloons are FAA certified aircraft. He continues to be involved in the 4th of July Bear Valley Springs Balloon Festival in Bear Valley Springs, CA, where he came in 1st place in the 2011 event. He attended the Albuquerque Fiesta for 25 years and likewise for the Great Reno Balloon Race.

Currently, he is the organizer of the "Las Vegas Hot Air Balloon Festvial" to benefit "Deaf Kids' Funding" (a non-profit organization that benefits deaf children (6-250) for their educational and family needs.)

Hugh proudly flies several different balloons:

"Smile High," which has "personality in the sky" and used mostly in competition events or for large groups;

"Band of Gold," which carries 2-4 passengers or is used for weddings (appropriately named);

"Vegas Star" (his newest balloon) which accommodates 2 passengers and has "vibrant" colors;

The RE/MAX balloon in Southern Nevada, which he has been contracted to fly since 2003;

Established in 1979 in California, Adventure Balloons offers scenic balloon rides, wedding celebrations, group flihts, tethered rides, promotions, and flight instruction in Las Vegas, NV.

In addition to ballooning, he has his Masters Degree, is a former school teacher (with an emphasis in Special Ed), speaks Japanese, enjoys judo, weight lifting, traveling andd has started "Unique Woods" -- a collection of "rustic" wood that he has acquired while bellooning and has turned into tables, lamps, and decorative items.

Hugh is married, and is very proud of his 4 children: Rob, a Registered Nurse; Michelle, an auto mechanic; Ken Gee, a Chiropractor; and Julie, an architect. He is also extremely proud of his four grandchildren, Eric (25), Dylen (10), Haley (3), and AkiAnne (1).

Thanks for joining our "Adventure"! We hope you enjoy your flight!

Flight Administrator

Buffy Sproul is the Flight Administrator and Executive Director of Deaf Kids' Funding, which Adventure Balloons supports 100%.