Cooper is a fantastic FAA commercial hot air balloon pilot who believes ballooning is not just a flight, but an experience everyone should have at least once in their life. His passion for ballooning comes through in every detail of how he flies, from careful preflight planning to the smooth, controlled landings he is known for. Cooper takes pride in showing guests that ballooning is both peaceful and remarkably precise, often surprising first time flyers with just how much control an experienced pilot has in the air.
One of Cooper’s favorite aspects of flying is performing splash and dashes on lakes, rivers, and ponds. These maneuvers require a deep understanding of wind, altitude control, and terrain, and Cooper approaches them with a calm confidence that puts passengers completely at ease. For him, these moments represent the perfect blend of skill and joy, where technical flying meets pure fun. Watching the reaction of guests as they skim the water’s surface is one of the highlights of every flight.
A true homegrown pilot, Cooper grew up in Lake Tapps and discovered ballooning early. He began crewing for Seattle Ballooning at just 16 years old, learning the fundamentals of the sport from the ground up. A year later, he purchased his first balloon, a rare milestone that reflects both his dedication and maturity at a young age. That early start laid the foundation for a professional flying career built on hands on experience, strong mentorship, and a deep respect for the craft.
Today, Cooper flies commercially in Enumclaw during the summer months and in Boise, Idaho for the remainder of the year. This seasonal rhythm has given him a wide range of flying conditions and environments, sharpening his judgment and adaptability as a pilot. He brings that experience into every flight, ensuring safety, comfort, and an unforgettable experience for each guest.
Of all the places he has flown, Cooper believes nothing compares to the rivers, lakes, and iconic views of Mount Rainier. Flying in this landscape is what continues to inspire him, and he loves sharing it with others from a perspective few people ever get to see. As Cooper likes to say, one of the best parts of his job is that he only works with happy people, because it is hard not to smile when floating quietly through the sky in a hot air balloon.
Accolades
• Purchased his first balloon at age 17
• First Boise State University student selected to fly in the Spirit of Boise
• Homegrown pilot flying Enumclaw skies for over five years