COLUMBUS AERONAUTS

This was a bucket list experience! We had to reschedule a few times because of weather conditions, but Russ always worked quickly to get us rescheduled and kept us updated about everything. I appreciated his commitment to safety! On the day of the flight, Russ explained everything in detail so we knew what to expect. It was fun getting to help set up and put away the balloon. During the flight, Russ & Russ pointed...

We experienced a great scenic and informative ride with Pilot Russ Jurg. We highly recommend you using Columbus Aeronaunts for all your personal and business needs..a hot air balloon ride should certainly be on your bucket list.
Fly high and Go Bucks!!

Russ and the crew were so informative and calm! Which made us rookie riders calmer. They made sure to prepare us for what to expect for when it was time to land. You could tell that Russ and crew enjoy what they do. They helped us fall in love with hot air ballooning!!

We had the incredible opportunity to partner with Russ and his team from Columbus Aeronautics to provide a tethered hot air balloon experience at our recent festival, and it was nothing short of spectacular! From the very beginning, Russ and his team showcased professionalism and expertise that made the entire experience seamless and enjoyable.

What a great experience! From start to finish Russ and his crew were easy to work with, accommodated our busy schedules to get us up in the air, were skilled, knowledgeable, safety conscious, AND laughed with us! What a glorious way to see the sun rise and watch the world go by. The photos Russ took of us are great mementos of our experience. Highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts. Thanks, Russ, Russ, and Scott!

Going on a hot air balloon ride was on my bucket list. Since I’m 80, I thought 2025 is the year to get that checked off. I called Columbus Aeronauts, and scheduled a balloon ride for four people September 6 with a backup date of September 20. The week of September 6 Russ kept me updated about my trip. That trip ended up being cancelled because of bad weather. Thankfully I had the 20 booked....

Wow! What an experience!! From booking to putting the balloon back on the truck after the flight, booking through Columbus Aeronauts was a wonderful experience.
Communication was well above average! Russ stayed in contact with us every step of the way. Weather didn’t allow us to fly a couple of days and safety was top priority for Columbus Aeronauts. Russ didn’t take any chances with the weather but he also did his best to...

Our family had been waiting years to do this, and we finally found the right time to do so. Fortunately for us, we picked a perfect date. The weather was superb, and it was a spectacular flight! Russ and his crew were top-notch! We got to see the sun rise over the horizon and hovered over the Scioto River among other great sights. You also get to experience the entire set up, and “take down”...

Flight was a gift from my amazing daycare parents and a bucket list item for my husband. He thoroughly enjoyed asking all of the technical questions and our pilot Trent was so informative. Me personally, I love the peace and quiet that being 6000 feet in the air brings and looking around at the beautiful scenery God provided. I highly recommend this company from the hard part of scheduling, mostly due to my job and...

It was our first hot air balloon experience – from takeoff to landing, every part of the experience was magical and the views were breathtaking. Every moment felt like we discovered a treasure, a hidden gem in Columbus. We loved our hot balloon experience with Russ and would highly recommend it! It was immersive and exciting, and we loved watching the joy it brought to people as they spotted our hot air balloon too!
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Russ made the whole process so easy and provided an excellent experience. Great communication the entire time. I proposed to my girlfriend on the flight and we couldn’t be happier with the flight. Very safe! Highly recommend

My friends and I had an amazing adventure with Russ and his crew from the Columbus Aeronauts. It was our first experience with a hot air balloon ride, but their crew was organized and fantastic. I would give more stars if the rating system allowed!

Absolutely worth it. Surprised my wife and did this for our 5year anniversary. We are from Cincinnati but after researching and reading the reviews for Columbus Aeronauts, we travelled the distance. No regrets. I was a little nervous about how I was going to deal with heights at first but I quickly got used to the idea after being in the air for a few minutes. The ride was very smooth the whole time. Russ...

Russ and his team were absolutely wonderful from start to finish. This was such a magical experience my mother, brother and I got to share for my mom’s 70th birthday. Communication was great while planning the balloon ride and determining where to meet. The team clearly has a passion for what they do and you feel like you’ve known them for years. I highly recommend this experience! It’s an amazing adventure right in your own...

Great experience. Would recommend to anyone looking for something unique and fun to do.

Our pilot Russ was amazing and had safety in mind the entire flight. We did the sunrise flight that lasted just over an hour. Russ provided lots of photos and a time lapse video free of charge the next day.

Definitely will consider doing this again.

I recently had the absolute pleasure of taking a scenic hot air balloon ride, and it was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, everything was handled with professionalism, warmth, and a true passion for the skies.

As we gently lifted off the ground, the world transformed beneath us. The views were breathtaking— a patchwork fields stretching as far as the eye could see with the City of Columbus showing in the distance....

From the moment we arrived till the end as we drove away the whole experience was wonderful. Russ and his staff were very professional, kind, informative, and made us feel comfortable and safe. When we lifted off it was amazing and breathtaking. This was my family’s first time and it was one of my wife’s bucket list things to do. She was very surprised! We are going to return again. Yes we’re telling everyone to...

What a wonderful experience! The Columbus Aeronauts Team was very professional and made my family feel safe and prepared for an awesome adventure. Russ our pilot was knowledgeable and funny. The flight was spectacular with views of a beautiful sunrise, picturesque tree tops, and classic midwestern landscapes. From take off to landing it was a great experience that I would highly recommend. 10 out of 10!

This was a bucket list experience! We had to reschedule a few times because of weather conditions, but Russ always worked quickly to get us rescheduled and kept us updated about everything. I appreciated his commitment to safety! On the day of the flight, Russ explained everything in detail so we knew what to expect. It was fun getting to help set up and put away the balloon. During the flight, Russ & Russ pointed...

We experienced a great scenic and informative ride with Pilot Russ Jurg. We highly recommend you using Columbus Aeronaunts for all your personal and business needs..a hot air balloon ride should certainly be on your bucket list.
Fly high and Go Bucks!!

Our hot air balloon flight with Columbus Aeronauts was a terrific experience. We enjoyed every moment of it. Russ took a great many photos and videos during our flight. We were glad we got the video so that we can replay the memories of the fun we had. It was truly a highlight experience and we hope to do it again sometime.
Russ is an expert flier and made sure the ride was safe...

We had the incredible opportunity to partner with Russ and his team from Columbus Aeronautics to provide a tethered hot air balloon experience at our recent festival, and it was nothing short of spectacular! From the very beginning, Russ and his team showcased professionalism and expertise that made the entire experience seamless and enjoyable.

The hot air balloon itself was a stunning visual attraction that drew in festival-goers of all ages. With its vibrant colors...

Russ and the crew were so informative and calm! Which made us rookie riders calmer. They made sure to prepare us for what to expect for when it was time to land. You could tell that Russ and crew enjoy what they do. They helped us fall in love with hot air ballooning!!

I have always dreamed of riding in a Hot Air Balloon but I never imagined my first time would turn out as it did! It was the most magical experience of my life! Little did I know my now fiancé had been working closely with Russ to secure a flight so he could propose in the air! My fiancé raved about Russ and how easy he was to work with in planning our Hot Air...

Russ was an amazing communicator through this process. It took us a while to get up in the air with him, but it was worth it. He communicated every date scheduled/canceled and was prompt to reschedule. When we finally got the chance to meet and fly, him and his crew were so fun. My husband and I loved getting a chance to see the set up, flight and take down of the balloon. The views...

My husband and I really enjoyed our experience going up in a hot air balloon for the first time. Russ and his crew were polite, personable and professional. Looking forward to our next balloon adventure. Definitely recommend!

What an experience!!. I personally never knew a balloon ride could be so much fun and relaxing. The sunrise was breathe taking. The view from the balloon was awesome. The staff answered all our questions and concerns. They were knowledgeable about everything you could think of. My family really enjoyed themselves. They would do it again with Russ and his company. So if you think a balloon ride isn’t for you, let Russ and his...

I reached out to book a flight for my fiance’s birthday and Russ Jurg promptly replied with instructions and we were able to book the date I requested. The flight itself was post-poned due to uncooperative weather and winds. Russ provided detailed explanations about what conditions were optimal for a flight. We hired him to not just to fly us but also to know when not to fly if the winds/weather are not safe. As...

Wow! What an experience with Russ and his team at Columbus Aeronauts! Safety and education are top priorities with Russ. One thing we didn’t expect, but was thrilled about, was being involved with the entire trip. We assisted with inflating the balloon to packing the balloon away. They make the ride “your ride.”

We took a breathtaking sunrise balloon ride floating above the beautiful autumn colors between Powell and Delaware. This was a once in...

Scheduled this almost a year ago for my mom’s 79th birthday, but due to a family emergency, Russ was very accommodating and easy to work with getting the perfect day to fly! We had a wonderful experience all around with Russ, the pilot, and his land crew. We learned about the history of flying hot air balloons and each of the crew were very knowledgeable and willing to answer all questions. Definitely would recommend Columbus...

Wonderful experience, the crew members go
Above and beyond . They put customer safety and satisfaction their top priority.

We had a great time celebrating my mom’s 80th Birthday on a sunset flight! She loved it! Great experience ☺️

I got a hot air balloon ride for my boyfriend’s birthday and it was 10/10 amazing!!!! Russ and his crew made us feel so safe, they were so experienced. It was fascinating to get to see the process of set up and tear down too! The ride itself was BEAUTIFUL and so peaceful! Such an awesome experience!

We booked our flight with Columbus aeronauts for my grandmas 80th birthday. We not only experienced the exhilarating haven of flying in a hot air balloon but Russ and his crew assured us a safe trip and was all knowledgeable. An all around incredible experience!

Me and the family took an amazing journey with Russ and his team earlier this month for my birthday extravaganza. It was perfect. The weather worked out great and we were able to get right on in there. Russ stayed in contact with us to let us know the weather outlook and probability of us being able to go up. That gave us a piece of mind knowing that it was for sure before making...

I can’t say enough about our hot air balloon ride. The entire experience from start to finish was more than we could have hoped for.

Russell communicated with us from start to finish, giving us updates through out the weekend. We travelled from PA to hike Hocking Hills and came to Columbus to get in a balloon – and we got so lucky that we did! Trent was an excellent guide and made you comfortable...

We booked a hot air balloon ride for my Dad’s Christmas present, and the wait was well worth it. He was excited and all smiles as he got to do something he’s wanted to do for a while and help in the process.

We did get rescheduled twice due to weather, but everyone was super nice and explained exactly why we had to wait and what could happen if we went up during the current...

My partner planned a surprise hot air Balloon engagement and it was absolutely perfect! Our pilot Russ was experienced and knowledgeable and we had a great time. He also got so many great pictures which we really appreciated! Thank you guys for an unforgettable experience making our special day extra special.

We had such an amazing experience flying with Russ. Our group of 4 decided to celebrate the 70th birthday of our friend by going up in a balloon on a beautiful clear morning in early October. It was spectacular. A clear, calm, quiet trip overlooking fields, streams,…a soccer game. The deer were running. Horses and cows, dogs barking. We saw it all from above! I’ll never forget this adventure. Thank you Columbus Aeronautics for making...

This was our 2nd time flying with Columbus Aeronauts. And it was a blast yet again. We had the opportunity to fly in the morning. We took off from the Dublin area and landed in Marysville. It was the smoothest, most pleasant experience that I have ever had. If you ever get the opportunity to take a hot air balloon ride, I would recommend flying with Russ and Trent. This is a must experience, just...

It was an amazing experience! Russ was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. We all had such a good time and it was so fun to see the set up and tear down as well. Thank you to the team for your hard work and taking such good care of us!

What a great experience! From start to finish Russ and his crew were easy to work with, accommodated our busy schedules to get us up in the air, were skilled, knowledgeable, safety conscious, AND laughed with us! What a glorious way to see the sun rise and watch the world go by. The photos Russ took of us are great mementos of our experience. Highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts. Thanks, Russ, Russ, and Scott!

My son and I had our first ever hot air balloon ride last weekend with Russ. I can say we were both very nervous and neither one of us like heights, but we both felt completely comfortable and safe after we arrived and met Russ!
He was not only kind and professional, but also was very informative on the process. I would highly recommend him and this company and would happily do this again!

I was skeptical about going up in a hot air balloon but 100% glad I did ! It was so beautiful to see the sun rise from above. Columbus Aeronauts took great care of us. Russ texted me every day for 4 days to keep us up to date on the weather predictions and the address we were to meet at. Everyone took pictures and shared all photos with no extra charge!! My husband and...

I love Columbus Aeronauts! This is my third time going on a hot air balloon ride with Russ. He is awesome and super experienced. Russ knows his stuff and makes sure we are always safe. We had to cancel a few times due to unsafe wind speeds. Russ prioritizes your safety. Our flight was an hour and fifteen minutes. We had a wonderful time and can’t recommend it enough! We launched over in Powell and...

We had the absolute best time doing a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Russ and the team at Columbus Aeronauts! From the moment they picked us up, everything was incredible. We got to be part of the full experience—helping get the balloon ready, watching it come to life, and then watching the sunrise from the sky.

What made it even more special was being able to actually be in the moment. We weren’t worrying...

Russ I just wanted to send a big THANK YOU from myself and AJ for making this an amazing and wonderful adventure for the both of us. We had a wonderful time and enjoyed every minute of the experience. The professionalism and kindness that you and the team displayed was beyond expectations. You guys did an exceptional job. I just can’t say enough about what you guys did in making this such a memorable adventure...

Great experience great photos took us sometime to get in the air due to weather and some schedules but it finally happened and was worth the wait Russ is a very knowledgeable pilot shared some great stories great crew can’t say enough good things about it! Go book a flight and enjoy!

A huge thank you to pilot Russ and crew members Amy and Jennifer for making our flight unforgettable! They were professional, friendly, and made every moment—from takeoff to landing—an absolute joy. They even captured wonderful photos and videos for us, creating memories we’ll treasure forever. I booked this flight last minute for my son’s birthday, and Russ truly made my dream come true. We’re already looking forward to flying with Columbus Aeronaut again for my...

Absolutely speechless! We did this trip as a belated Christmas gift for my mother (75) and father (84) and it was breathtaking. The goal was to have an experience and make some memories that would last a lifetime and it didn’t disappoint. Russell was first class in every phase. He was very easy to communicate with, answered all our questions, and was really enjoyable to chat with and learn from during the flight. His passion...

First time we’ve been aloft in a balloon and Russ did an incredibly professional job piloting and allaying any trepidation we had. Jennifer and Scott provided chase and support for our flight. Can’t recommend highly enough.

Wow. What a fantastic experience. Floating high for a great overview or low just above the corn. Russ made it very special. Do not pass up the opportunity to go for a balloon ride with Russ. You will remember it forever.

Waste no more time, you have found the best Hot Air Balloon experience. Russ, is incredibly professional, polite, great at communicating, and expert at flying his gorgeous balloon. I surprised my wife for her birthday and we had a beautiful hour-long private ride on a perfectly picturesque Ohio evening. Russ is committed to safety and kept me informed of all his decisions as he watched the weather to ensure we would be able to safely...

Such a wonderful experience from booking to communication to the actual balloon ride. I did a fair amount of research on this opportunity and felt that Columbus Aeronauts would be the best option. The initial booking was simple and straightforward. Communication throughout was wonderful and we needed to find a day and time when the weather would accommodate our flight. The actual ride was smooth, picturesque, and one in a million. We have been raving...

My mom and I took a ride in the Heartland hot air balloon, piloted by Columbus Aeronauts. The team was extremely professional and we felt very safe. Their passion for the craft is palpable and I feel very fortunate to have had this experience.

Once in a lifetime, amazing experience! Instructors/pilots were very nice. Made us feel at ease throughout the whole experience. We were able to help inflate the Ballon and pack it up. We were celebrating a birthday and 100% recommend Columbus Aeronauts for any special occasion!

Don’t have to travel far its here in Columbus, ohio. My brother and I had the amazing experience on getting on a hot air balloon it was wonderful exciting. Loved the Hands-On experience assembly the air balloon and the staff is very nice, respectful. Highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts for your next adventure.

Fantastic 1st Hot Air Balloon flight with Russ and Columbus AERONAUTS for sunrise this past weekend. The full experience was amazing, loved watching and being part of the pre-flight set-up and after landing pack-up process. We were impressed with the communications as many details with wind direction are closely monitored to determine the launch date and location as safety was their number one concern for flight. Our flight was so peaceful and smooth as we...

Enough cannot be said about Columbus Aeronauts. From my first initial phone call to the shared pictures everything was top of the line. Russ is very polite and a joy to work with. The total experience was awesome. If anyone is considering a hot air balloon experience this is the only company I would recommend you contact. Thank you Russ, Andrew and Scott for our memorable experience. Five Stars and above!

I’ve had the best experience with Columbus Aeronauts! Russ and his team make sure that you have the best experience possible. I got the full experience of flying high and flying low. They start communicating a few days out of your scheduled flight to make sure it is safe to fly. Remember, no one can control Mother Nature. They put safety first and I completely trust their judgement. Give them a try, you won’t be...

My husband and I recently had a ride with Russ who answered all of our questions; and explained what to expect. We helped with the balloon inflation and packing up when it was done. The weather was perfect! Extremely enjoyable! It was so calm, quiet, and peaceful! We would plan with Russ again in a heartbeat! Thanks for everything, Russ!

My fiancée and I had a sunrise flight and got to experience a beautiful sunrise. Russ and his team were very professional and friendly. Russ went out his way to make sure we got a flight scheduled with many changes due to the weather. Thank you again Russ for an amazing experience.

Russel was very accommodating with our schedule! He was very thorough and professional with all communications. Our pilot was Trent and he was hilarious. Unfortunately I don’t know everyone else’s names who also helped, but we had the best time and would 10/10 recommend this business to everyone!

I highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts! The entire process was seamless. Their communication was top notch. Their customer service is amazing . They went above and beyond to make us comfortable and explained what to expect each step of the way. The staff was professional and very knowledgeable. The pictures were a great and we received them the same morning. I can not recommended them enough!

This was a great experience with them. From the communication, costs and delivery of services. I proposed to my fiance on the flight.

They made everything perfect! I highly recommend them for any type of flight!

Great job guys!

This morning my husband & I marked something off of our bucket list. We went on our 1st Hot Air Balloon ride, and it didn’t disappoint us at all. It was the most exciting, fun, and beautiful scenery we have ever seen. The crew & pilot made our experience the most rewarding. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. We would definitely do it again.

If you’ve seen “Up” you will remember russell. Now’s your chance to meet Russel and take you UP and away for the most beautiful and seamless experience. He was easy going and easy to talk to as the balloon quarters are close. The entire crew was experienced, kind and helpful. We had a great time and would recommend this company to anyone interested in a hot air balloon adventure!

Wow, that was an experience of a lifetime! From start to finish the communication with Russ was perfect. Full disclosure, and I was a little nervous about going up that high but the entire trip was so smooth I would never have guessed it would’ve been like that. I loved that it was such a hands-on adventure. The sights were definitely my favorite part of the whole thing. Seeing the trees, fields and wildlife were...

Went with Russ and crew for my Mom’s 80th Birthday. What a great time! Russ accommodated taking off at our Sunbury home which was fantastic and made it even more special for my folks that grew up there. I would highly recommend the flight with Russ and crew. He will make it special!

My siblings and I got this experience for our parents for their 40th anniversary. They took a sunrise flight this past October and loved the flight! Russ was professional, knowledgeable, and personable. I followed along the flight path with Russ’s dad and enjoyed his life experience stories. I highly recommend this company for anyone who wants to have this experience.

Russell and his team made my balloon experience one of a kind. I did a sunrise flight with my grandsons and Russell turned it into an unforgettable memory for us all.

Had a great experience with Russ and the Columbus Areonauts. Great communication prior to the flight and a fun and safe ride in the air. Would recommend!

I booked a hot air balloon ride as a birthday treat for myself and it was a wonderful experience. Russ’ communicated throughout the process to let me know how everything would work and that I would feel 100% at ease since it was my first time. My ride was at sunrise and it was so beautiful. Pictures are not enough to describe how it was. It was so peaceful and I would definitely do it...

This was an awesome experienced starting from the first time I contacted Russ. He kept me up to date on the flight plan and weather situation before the event. This was a gift for my husband for our 26th anniversary…I was apprehensive because I have a fear of heights. Russ and the crew were professional and let us know what was happening with every step. I felt safe and secure the entire time. We were...

Most people hope for a big surprise party when their age hits a big number. But, sometimes, circumstances allow you to look at things from a different perspective. My brother dreamed of building an airplane for as long as I can remember. This summer, he graduated, as he called it, and could not celebrate my birthday with me. I finally decided to cross off ‘hot air balloon flight’ from my bucket list, and it became...

What an incredible experience! Felt very safe and much smoother than I anticipated. I was very nervous at start as I’m afraid of heights. Entire experience was well organized and safe. Can’t wait to go again. THANK YOU RUSS!

Great experience! I was super nervous but Chase made us all feel very comfortable in his ability to fly us safely. It was a relaxing and beautiful trip. Would definitely recommend

A bucket list item to be sure, Columbus Aeronauts is a top-notch hot air ballooning business focused on safety and FUN! Russ and his crew are very personable, friendly and endeavor to cater to any reasonable requests to make the experience special. Not only that, Russ and his team are focused on delivering a SAFE experience and making sure everyone is comfortable before going up in the balloon. Until I met Russ, I did not...

You will absolutely love this lifetime adventure! Peaceful. Incredible. Definitely the organization you’ll want to choose for the upmost professionalism, safety, hands on and joy filled experience! Russ & Crew are Top-Notch! Every day is a true gift, don’t put off living your adventurous spirit! You’ll not regret it, promise! Thank You Russ & Crew for making this day the best sunrise day ever!

UPDATE: changing from a 2-star to 4-star, because Russ reached out to me and let me know that Jim was contracted and not part of his company. I don’t think it’s right to have it affect it so strongly. Russ was so understanding and trying to get us in the air before end of season. Therefore company is great, maybe don’t use Jim again.

It’s a debate between a 2 or 3 star, should be...

I inquired about a balloon ride as a surprise gift for my husband. Everything, beginning with the first contact, made this experience an absolute can’t miss adventure.
Communication was clear, informative and transparent. Coordination was a breeze including the day by day weather tracking. The event itself felt effortless and enjoyable. Step by step we were safe, informed and had the space to take in the entire experience with a stellar team. Grateful for...

Such a great experience! Red-carpet treatment from beginning to end! Russ was great at letting us know what to expect and kept us updated all throughout the planning and pre-flight period. He and his crew pulled us in to the set-up, pack-up and full ballooning experience. We also really appreciated him sharing the details of the flight as we went along; altitude, speed, distance, etc. Their passion for ballooning is infectious and added so much...

It was my birthday present I absolutely loved it it was amazing had a wonderful time it was a beautiful night I appreciate it so much everyone was so kind it was great experience can’t wait to do it again definitely will call them instead of someone else the scenery was beautiful the Sun was beautiful too landed in a cow field and that was the best part for me I love cows you must...

Fantastic Company with a great crew and pilot. Felt safe the entire time. Pricing Is very fair for a once in a lifetime experience. The pictures we were given after our flight were beautiful.

Columbus Aeronauts and Russ Jerg are top notch! From the initial call to learn more, to booking and rescheduling due to weather concerns, to the final flight, Russ is a true professional. He kept us informed the entire way and kept safety at the forefront. The flight was nothing short of AMAZING and SPECTACULAR. It is a memory we will never forget. Thank you, Russ and crew!

Russ and his team were awesome! We did a sunrise ride and it was an amazing experience.

Prior to the flight Russ kept us up to date every day to ensure our ride would be perfect. He provided hourly and daily weather updates and prioritized safety to ensure we did not fly in any bad conditions. Upon arrival Russ and the team unpacked the balloon and basket and involved us in the experience of setting...

This was an amazing experience! Their team was fantastic. I will say they take safety seriously, so do not be discouraged if you schedule and the first time gets moved. I was well worth the wait. That is part of the experience. I will recommend them to anybody thinking about doing this.

This is truly a unique experience that you will not forget! We celebrated my birthday with a fun girls night out adventure. This is beautiful, serene and did not impact my fear of heights at all, which I was very surprised. I recommend this for families, romantic flights, just an adventure day and most certainly for girls trips. Thank you to Columbus Aeronants! ❤

It was an early morning sunrise lift off. Ascending into the air, it was really something else. This was an experience like none of us had ever before had. Those of us who wanted to help got to assist with the whole process. Captain Russ made us really part of the experience. Our teenagers said, “It was a magically splendiferous adventure that made us feel like we could fly.”
We fell more madly in...

Great experience. Russell was wonderful with communication and coordination. Trent is ABSOLUTELY fantastic at what he does and made for an amazing ride!!!

Was such a wonderful experience. Would definitely recommend Columbus Aeronauts to anyone who is thinking of going in a Hot Air Balloon.. “Just do it, you won’t regret it”

What a great experience! Wonderful pilot, wonderful flight, wonderful pictures from the crew, and wonderful memories were made! I would 100% fly with Columbus Aeronauts again 😊

I cannot recommend Russ and Columbus Aeronauts enough. My husband and I took a sunset flight recently and LOVED it.
Not only was the weather and flight wonderful, watching Russ, Scott, and Tom set up and disassemble the balloon was exciting to watch and be a part of the process. They all were knowledgable and we enjoyed spending time with them for the evening.
We are truly still smiling from the experience. When...

I have wanted to go on a hot air balloon ride since I was a child and this experience was truly amazing. It was so cool to be part of the experience from the beginning to the end. We were kept in great communication with Russ about weather conditions and flight details. The sights and weather were beautiful and the experience overall was so much fun and beyond what words can describe. I highly recommend...

I have been up several times and it has been a beautiful and surreal experience. If you have any reservations about fear of heights don’t let it hold you back. It is less stressful than an elevator ride. It is an experience that you will always remember whether solo or with family/friends. All of the staff is experienced and wonderful. Do not get frustrated if your flight gets moved. The best part of Columbus Aeronauts...

I can’t begin to describe this! It’s been on my bucket list since last year. Wasn’t able to go last year due to the weather. Russ kept me updated on whether the conditions were good for our flight. Finally I was able to go! A beautiful Friday morning flight. Totally awesome. Saw two bald eagles while flying. I would so do it again. Russ and his crew were very professional and explained everything. Guess what...

I’m so happy I chose Columbus Aeronauts for my first Hot Air Balloon experience! I will definitely be back! My girls and I had such a good time! I dealt with Russ from start to finish. Great communication, great pilot and great photographer that put safety first and foremost. His ground crew, Cooper and Anthony were great as well! They all had fun and personable personalities! Even the pilots of the other balloons were friendly!...

Hands down one of the best experiences of my life. The pilots are very professional and fun. Definitely a great time and would recommend!

What an amazing flight! Everything about my adventure was top rate, from the initial scheduling to our smooth landing! Russ is a true professional who knows how to balance safety with a once in a lifetime experience at 2,000′.

Absolutely first rate experience. It started with the communication and approach. Russ explained how it would go down to the letter and practiced what he preached… safety first. He tracked the weather daily/hourly and kept us apprised of the decision to go or no go. Very comforting to know it wasn’t about making a buck. We were fortunate and couldn’t have asked for better weather, but safety was monitored up until flight time. Russ explained...

My boyfriend and I had an amazing experience flying with Columbus Aeronauts. Our pilot Russ was very professional and kept us up to date with the weather as our scheduled flight day approached. His balloon crew were great and very friendly. I highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts if you’re looking to go fly in a hot air balloon. We felt safe and secure the entire time and knew that we would only be flying in ideal...

We had an amazing sunset experience in our balloon! Russ was awesome and professional.

I wanted to do a hot air balloon ride since I was a kid. This was everything I wanted it to be and more! They made sure our safety was top priority, but also let us have a lot of fun helping, participating in hot air balloon rituals and taking some great photos! The crew was great. Could not have asked for a better experience!

Riding in the balloon was absolutely incredible! It fulfilled my childhood dream! The entire process was remarkable. From watching the balloon get inflated to flying above the trees and birds was breathtaking. Russ was a superb Captain by pointing out aerial views of the landscape below. Watching the sun rise from the air is a memory I will cherish forever. He even provided photos of us in the air. I highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts for...

Excellent from start, through reschedule, to finish.

Russ and his crew exceeded all expectations and have our sincere thanks for an unequivocally superb experience!

Fantastic Experience and Excellent Customer Service!
A hot air balloon ride was on my father’s bucket list for 40 years. Russ made it totally worth the wait. From the first time my son spoke with him on the phone, we knew we picked the right company. Russ kept us informed and up-to-date with every aspect of our adventure. He is an extremely knowledgeable pilot who answered all our questions and taught us a lot...

What a truly magical experience, I surprised my family, they had no idea. Highly recommend an evening flight.

Amazing experience! We had Russ as our pilot today and he was awesome! He was great about explaining all of the steps in the process and answered all of our group’s curious questions about hot air balloons. It was so cool to make memories with a hot air balloon ride but it truly wouldn’t have been the same if it weren’t for our pilot! I’m so glad we happened upon this company and specifically this...

My husband and I had a great experience on our first hot air balloon ride with Columbus Aeronauts! Russ and the crew were very friendly and professional. It was so neat to see the beauty of creation from the sky. We felt safe, and it was surprisingly peaceful instead of nerve-racking. Being a photo fanatic myself, I loved that Russ made sure to capture our experience with photos and video, which he promptly sent me....

The ride was amazing! Russ communicated with us through the entire process from scheduling to end. The team seemed very experienced and were really friendly. Their expertise made everything feel so much more secure. Russ got us to different altitudes throughout to experience it all and it was amazing! Would definitely go back!

I highly recommend this experience! My husband and I took a flight with Columbus Aeronauts just a few weeks ago, and it was amazing! The entire experience was so fun, from watching the balloon inflate, to the feeling of liftoff, to the amazing views! Russ Jurg was professional and informative (in other words, he made us feel very safe, and patiently answered all of our questions about ballooning—a fascinating world). What wonderful memories we made!...

My husband bought this hot air balloon ride for me as a Christmas gift and we took our sunrise ride on Friday, July 13. What an amazing experience!! I loved how we were able to be a part of the set up and tare-down of the hot air balloon, I think that added a unique addition to the ride. Russ was super friendly and informative and I enjoyed meeting his father and crew. They even...

I highly, highly, highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts!!! If you’ve never been in a hot air balloon, it is an amazing experience! Russ and his crew are great people. They have fun and make the trip enjoyable, but are clearly professionals. Russ took us to float up high, but also took us down among the trees and just above the soybeans. Having 4 other balloons launch at the same time, and in the same area, made...

We had an amazing time with Russ and his balloon! This is an experience that we won’t soon forget. Russ was very knowledgeable and always eager to answer my many questions about how all the pulleys worked. I’m still smiling about it and we’ve been back on earth for several hours!😁

My first time in a hot air balloon and it was awesome!! Been wanting to do it for awhile now and finally decided to book the flight. Columbus Aeronauts came up as one of the top searches with really good reviews and I can see why. Russ is an excellent Pilot and guide. He explained how the balloons work with the wind patterns and everything. Super informative. We went up just before sunset and the...

Russ and his team were incredible. This was my first hot air balloon ride and I had many questions. Russ answered every one patiently and in a very detailed manner. The trip took us over Perkins Observatory, farmland, Alum Creek, and even route 23. The views were spectacular as we climbed to 3000 feet. At one point, we were able to fly low enough to wave at some children watching us outside their homes. I...

So peaceful, so professional, so worth the wait!

My boyfriend & I really enjoyed our sunrise hot air balloon ride with Russ from Columbus Aeronautics and his team today! Russ was not only great at communicating with us regarding weather but throughout the flight he shared some history of hot air balloons along with answering my many many questions about ballooning and his experiences.

I seriously cannot recommend this guy enough! Thank you again!

This was such an amazing experience! We were a group of 4 friends who love a good adventure and this fits the bill. We got to be part of the process of inflating and packing up the balloon, which was really fun. The pilot and chase crew were knowledgeable and funny. They took lots of pictures that were provided to us at no additional cost. They even answered our weird questions. I cannot recommend this...

If you’re going to go on a hot air balloon around in/around Columbus, look no further, Russ and his crew are amazing. They were professional and thorough during the entire process and Russ went out of his way to get plenty of pictures and videos during our flight.

I actually proposed to my girlfriend on our flight and Russ even brought us champagne to enjoy after I popped the question. You won’t regret booking through...

A hot air balloon ride was the number one thing on my girlfriend’s bucket list. I was extremely hesitant due to a fear of heights. Russ and his crew made this entire experience painless and one to remember. I had an amazing time and honestly can’t wait to do it again. His communication throughout the entire process was amazing as well. Great customer service. If you are considering going for a ride I highly recommend...

This was a birthday gift I scheduled in August. Russ worked with me on rescheduling multiple times. He was good about being in touch and explaining about the weather and flexible with the reschedule. We finally got our ride in and it was wonderful. We had a sunrise balloon ride. The ride was smooth and we got allot of pictures. Russ shared stories with us and talked about his experiences ballooning. It was a good...

Last night my husband and I took our very first hot air balloon ride courtesy of Heartland Bank and Columbus Aeronauts. It was so awesome. Russ, Charlie and Steve were super at making us comfortable and safe and making it such a memorable occasion. They were accommodating and professional. They also made it fun for us and our family members who came to see us off. I highly recommend them to anyone who wants to...

We had our first balloon ride Saturday, kids are 8 and 11, and the 4 of us had an amazing time!

Russ was super conservative about the weather and expectations, (in case weather would make us postphone) making sure safety was top priority.

We met at 6am and got to watch the balloon come together. The basket was easy to get into, and we were up!

We had a stunning morning flight. I’ve told so...

I received a balloon ride for my birthday from all my family and my brother and I went on the ride. Russ was so professional and kind and considerate during the ride. He kept us informed on all aspects of the trip. He was also kind enough to come to IL so we could fly over the lake. It was a beautiful night, and an amazing ride. We would do it again in a heartbeat....

I have had a hot air balloon ride on my bucket list for quite some time now and I definitely picked the right company for the task! Russ was super nice and informative on the phone while getting my flight scheduled. And even though we had to reschedule a few times due to weather and it not being safe to go up, he was extremely accommodating with my work schedule and was able to make...

Amazing experience! Russ and his crew were fantastic!! We had perfect weather and a great flight. Cannot wait to fly with Columbus Aeronauts again!! If you’re considering taking a hot air balloon ride, look them up, you won’t be disappointed.

An absolutely magical experience! It was so peaceful and calming to float over the treetops at sunrise. The team was incredibly professional and made us feel safe and comfortable the entire time. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure. I can’t wait to go again!

“Fill your life with experiences, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show”. That was exactly the intention when I set out to find some new experience, to surprise my wife for her birthday. My son suggested a Hot Air Balloon ride, and a quick search later I was convinced Columbus Aeronauts would provide us that awesome experience. I spoke with Russ Jurg over phone – he was incredibly professional and explained how...

We had an amazing time with Russ and Columbus Aeronauts! The flight was beautiful and very calming. Russ kept us updated about plans and conditions all week leading up to the flight, and was confident, knowledgeable, and personable throughout the trip. Afterwards, he sent us beautiful photos documenting the experience. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and we’re so glad we did it with Columbus Aeronauts!

OMG! Best hot air balloon ride EVER! Russ and his crew are fantastic! Russ knows what he is doing! We had to reschedule a few times due to weather, but well worth the wait! I was glad he was very safety conscious and we had the PERFECT sunrise trip! Thanks Russ and crew!

I had such a great experience with Russ & his team!! If you are considering it, this is your sign to just do it!! I am so thankful we got such a perfect morning for it. Thanks, Russ!!

Great experience! I’ve never been on a hot air balloon ride and the whole crew made the experience very relaxing and enjoyable.

Our Hot Air Balloon flight was fantastic. Russ is a great pilot and has a wonderful flight crew. We had a gorgeous sunrise with a beautiful view over the Scioto River. The weather has been tough this summer for Hot Air Balloon flights but we were able to get our flight in after 1 delayed date. I was very thankful and appreciative that Russ takes all of his flights seriously. He will keep your safety...

I highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts. Russ and crew made us feel welcome and explained every step of the journey with enthusiasm and expertise. The added touch of taking and sharing lots of pictures made the experience even more memorable. This was a fantastic way to check off a bucket list item!

Once we were all in the basket, we levitated from the ground as effortlessly as a balloon that leaves your grip. Even though we were floating in the sky, I was always aware that Russ was in control of the situation.

His lifelong passion for taking flight, his attention to detail, and his respect for safety were evident and reassuring. He and his crew were very professional and personable.

There was no dramatic bounce in...

My husband and I went on our 1st balloon ride. The feeling of floating in the air was awesome. A most amazing experience. A memory we will cherish forever. Russ and his team, very professional and friendly made that happen. Everyone should enjoy this experience .

I booked our first flight on a hot air balloon to celebrate my wife’s 50th birthday. The original date we scheduled had to be cancelled at the last minute due to the lack of wind. We booked a new date as soon as our schedule allowed and we couldn’t have been happier with our adventure. The weather was great! There were multiple balloons that flew along with us. Russ was the aeronaut for our flight...

My balloon ride with Russ was everything I anticipated and more!! The flight was smooth as silk and the scenery was fantastic. I felt very safe in the hands of Russ and his crew. I can’t wait to do it again!

My husband and two year old daughter went on a private flight for his Father’s Day gift. Russ was great from the initial communication, rescheduling due to weather, and keeping us posted throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts. We had a peaceful Saturday morning with Russ and his crew. It was awesome!

Checked off another bucket list item with Russ and his crew! We had a lovely sunrise flight. The peaceful serene feeling of floating above the earth is something everyone should experience at least once! Russ was great, answering all my questions and letting us know what to expect and he and his crew took pictures to help us document our flight! Great time!

My grandson and I called them the day before we wanted a ride and they were able to accommodate us! We had such a blast and the trip was amazing. Huge shout out to the entire crew for their hard work, attentiveness, hospitality and for the great photos. If you’re in Ohio you’ve got to look these guys up! Thanks for the memories we will never forget.

I really can’t say enough good things about our experience, or the crew. Russ has a great team to help with the set up, our questions (which were plentiful), pictures and making sure we had to great time. We had Trent as our pilot and he did a fantastic job from start to finish. We will definitely be back!

I had an awesome experience flying with Columbus Aeronauts. Russ and team were amazing. Russ kept a lot of days open for my flight as my schedule was not certain. He also accommodated my requests of buying a bottle of champagne for me as I wasn’t able to bring it myself. Russ and team were very friendly and my experience was nothing short of amazing. I would totally recommend flying with Columbus Aeronauts.

We had an absolute wonderful time! I scheduled this back in September for my husband’s surprise birthday gift however due to weather we had to postpone. It’s worth the wait! Russ did a wonderful job communicating and getting us the perfect morning to fly. He was also very knowledgeable and entertaining. It is such an excillerating experience and we highly recommend it! Please do not get disappointed if Russ cancels. Safety for his passengers and...

My boyfriend and I wanted to go on a hot air balloon ride for our 3 year anniversary so we got in touch with Russ at Columbus Aeronauts. We just went yesterday evening and it was so much fun! Russ and his crew were great… and not only that, but we got off the hot air balloon engaged! My now fiancé thought it was a great idea, and Russ took plenty of pictures during the...

Russ took our family on an experience of a life time. My husband planned this balloon ride for my 40th birthday and this was a bucket list item I can check off now! I cannot describe the views from above the ground and pictures don’t do it justice either. There was something so peaceful and serene floating up in the sky, in full view of the sun rising. The views were breathtaking. We had some...

I wanted a unique gift for my husband for Father’s Day and Columbus Aeronauts came thru! The weather made our date selection a challenge but Russ was open and honest about ideal condiand safety. Once we got to fly date, it was a blast. Everyone helps with setup and got to learn how everything worked. The views were beautiful and the flight was effortless. Zero drama! Would do it again in a heartbeat!

From start to finish this was an experience of a lifetime. It doesn’t get more personal and interactive. You’re in the pilot seat as well as along for the ride. It was extremely peaceful and we were in awe the entire ride. The pilot was extremely friendly and interactive with us. It was educational just as much as it was exhilarating. I would 10/10 recommend Russ and the Columbus Aeronautics team for a once in...

I was successful in checking off another item on my bucket list. The crew was incredibly informative and amazing to fly with. We were not only made to feel very comfortable, but was informed on the history of aeronautics and how the whole process works. I would recommend this experience to anyone and HIGHLY recommend the team we flew with. 10 out of 5 stars. I can’t thank the team more… you were all amazing.

What a surreal experience. This was a gift for my wife on our 7th anniversary.
Russ (our pilot), helped make this an extremely worth wild trip. When our first day didn’t work out due to weather. Russ worked tirelessly to set up a time when we could get up.
The crew was efficient and friendly. Even in these uncertain times, this journey is a must do for any adventurer.
My wife and...

We were so delighted to be able to make arrangements for a hot air balloon ride. It was the night before when we asked and they were so nice to work with to make the experience so easy. We were able to be right there and see all the preparation to go up. The ride was wonderful and it was exciting to see where we could land. They had a really nice group of helpers...

Our experience was fabulous!! Russ is very good at his profession! He was communicating with me daily about the weather . We couldn’t have made a better choice . It was such a beautiful day and we very much enjoyed our trip with Russ , he made everyone feel comfortable. We were celebrating a birthday!
Thanks for making our ballon trip wonderful!

What an incredible experience!!!! Our pilot Russ and the crew so kind. I felt so safe throughout the entire fight. My husband and I couldn’t have asked for better service. I would definitely recommend Columbus Aeronauts to anyone You is looking forward to a safe and fabulous flight!!!

What an incredible experience!!!! Our pilot Russ and the crew so kind. I felt so safe throughout the entire fight. My husband and I couldn’t have asked for better service. I would definitely recommend Columbus Aeronauts to anyone You is looking forward to a safe and fabulous flight!!!

It was a great experience. My fiance and I did the sunrise hot air balloon ride. The team was very professional and provided updates and checked with you each each day a week before the flight. They were very punctual and fun to talk to. They gave clear instructions on safety and step by step of what will happen. It is definitely once in a life time experience that everyone should have on their bucket...

Great people, awesome time, highly recommend

An incredible experience I’d love to do again. Columbus Aeronauts provides a breathtaking ride that’s relaxing, safe and educational. The entire crew was professional, friendly and a joy to be involved with. I can’t recommend this enough; if you haven’t been up before this is a great crew to fly with!

This was an adventure we looked forward to and We had a wonderful time! So amazing to be up in the air in a hot air balloon.. Russ and his team were so professional and experienced. I highly recommend COLUMBUS AERONAUTS!

Firstly ballooning is such an amazing experience, not at all scary but peaceful and beautiful and I would highly recommend letting go of fear and giving it a try. Secondly Columbus Aeronauts owner Russ is personable and professional. And focused on safety and making the experience the best it could be. It was fascinating watching the process of balloon set up and take down and even getting to help a little. Five stars for this...

It was an awesome morning flight with my sister. Really great view and learned a lot about hot air ballooning. It was so much fun flying over different things. Russ and his staff are very kind and very fun to work with. I would recommend to everyone. Was a great experience.

Had the experience of a lifetime! So very worth the delay due to weather. Dreamed of doing this since I was a kid. Wanted my 87 year old dad to have the experience, so we did it! Russ gave Dad a little extra attention, gave us all sorts of fascinating information, and helped us fulfill a dream – a memory we’ll have forever. During the flight I saw how safety-focused Russ is- a true professional....

Taking a hot air balloon ride was something I always wanted to do. As I got older, it became a bucket list item that I honestly figured I would never achieve. It was a maybe someday bullet on the list that I really put no effort into making a reality perhaps because I am afraid of heights or better stated, I am afraid of gravity and the theory that what goes up will come back...

On a scale of 1 to 10, this was an 11! Our hot air balloon experience was thrilling from start to finish. The crew is fun, funny, hard-working and professional. Russ is an extremely skilled and careful pilot. Very friendly, as was his dad, Tony, who drove the chase car. The experience was unforgettable!

The Columbus Aeronauts is a unbelievably experience, the staff is great and very professional. If you want to create a life memory this is for you. I never could have imagined how amazing this would be. This will be one of our greatest memories of our family. The sunrise trip was breathtaking and it was so relaxing even at almost a mile in the air. If you are going to take a ride, this is...

What a fantastic experience! Highly recommended! Russ is very professional and a skilled pilot! Had an amazing early morning flight over Alum Creek lake. If you have never flown in a hot air balloon, you are missing out!

My four children went on a balloon ride to celebrate my daughter’s birthdays. It was absolutely incredible!!! It was definitely an experience they will never forget! We chose Columbus Aeronauts because of their attention to safety. We were so impressed with how careful, knowledgeable and friendly they were. I highly recommend them!

We shared an amazing evening with Columbus Aeronauts. Our pilot was very knowledgable and an excellent communicator as he organized our flight. Safety is at the top of his list as he prepared and planned the flight. He helped make our entire experience memorable and exciting. I highly recommend flying with this talented group.

I would like to fully reccomend Columbus Aeronautics for a fun balloon adventure.
The staff was very experienced and very personable. They also communicated the process to set any concerns straight. Total 5 stars!!!

Celebrating my BFF turning 50! From start to finish, a wonderful experience! Excellent communication before the ride and expert, amazing navigation in a beautiful setting. Thank you to Russ, Jim, Dean, Peyton, and the rest of the team.

JUST A GIRL & HER DAD TOOK THEIR FIRST FLIGHT 9/8/2024!
What an incredible day and I got to enjoy it with MY DAD!!
If you have never done this, you really need to experience a TRUE Hot Air Balloon Ride…NOT TETHERED.
It will be a day you’ll never forget!
Thank you to the COLUMBUS AERONAUTS CREW for doing a fantastic job!!
YOU GUYS ROCK!!!
*THIS WILL DEFINITELY NOT...

I highly recommend this company! Our family took an amazing sunrise flight and had a fabulous time. Russ and his crew were very professional and friendly; he communicated with us prior to the flight with weather and time updates. We felt very comfortable and completely safe. He took and shared plenty of pictures of our family and made sure we didn’t miss really interesting photos. We love that he shared so many details and traditions...

I’ve been waiting three years to take my wife on a hot air balloon ride. It was difficult for us because I wanted to schedule it on two specific dates. When we finally went up in the air, on our engagement anniversary, I re-proposed to my wife and upgraded her ring. Russ, you were right, this was definitely worth the wait…

Russ (His Father & Team) are absolutely amazing! – From the first phone call, throughout and even weeks after Russ has gone above and beyond in everyway!

Everything about Russ & Columbus Aeronauts is class, sophistication and fun! The swanky ride to the hot air ballon is a very nice touch as well.

The story to our engagement was made ideal due to the experience Russ provided! The time, energy and effort he put in,...

Do yourself a favor and Book your hot air balloon ride with Columbus aeronautics. Russ was super responsive and kept me updated on the weather conditions and how safe it would be to fly. I originally wanted a sunset but end up flying at sunrise. The conditions were Amazing and Russ was uber professional.
We had the pictures and video same day. It was so nice to be able to enjoy the moment and...

Russ and his crew are friendly, professional , and very easy to work with.
Flying like a bird was a thrill of a lifetime. We even saw a bald eagle below us!! Being able to see the rising sun was so cool , with the fresh air and peace it was a fantastic trip.
Would certainly go again.
Thank you Russ for a great trip.
Pat and Larry

Russ and his crew were absolutely amazing. What a fabulous pilot. He made my mother‘s 81st birthday so special. The flight was over an hour with many pictures and great memories made. Would highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts!

Not only was our experience incredible but Columbus Aeronauts were great to work with! They stayed in contact with us about weather conditions and didn’t mind answering all of our questions. They were very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend flying with them!

We had a great experience! Russ was very informative and answered all of our questions before, during, and after our flight. The chase crew did a great job and we had fun with everyone. The pictures they took for us were fabulous! We were able to help do a few things putting up and tearing down the balloon which made it that much more memorable. I would definitely recommend this company and use them again!

I had a wonderful experience with Columbus Aeronauts and Charlie being our pilot! From watching the balloons being inflated to hovering over the tree tops and landing it was worth it! Russ was also extremely responsive in communication about weather and questions I had prior to the flight.

Russell was our pilot and all I can say is WOW! He made the experience everyone that it was. You don’t just jump in the basket and float off. Columbus Aeronauts really immerses you in the whole experience from start to end.
I would recommend this company to anyone looking to have an incredible experience Hot Air Ballooning.

We wanted to give our daughter something memorable for her graduation from OSU. She and her brother went up with Russ and it was more exciting and memorable than they could have imagined! Russ is a top rate pilot who really knows what he is doing and his equipment is top of the line! He made it really fun for them as well! This is something everybody should do! Treat yourself or someone you know!...

Wonderful experience! Russ and his crew made us very comfortable and my wife and I couldn’t be more pleased. Such a neat experience. If you plan on doing this go with Columbus Aeronauts. #funballooning

Russ, Anthony and Cooper gave us a truly once in a lifetime experience. They were personable and professional, and they made the trip an amazing one. We never once were nervous about a thing. We knew they had everything under control at all times. I would highly recommend contacting them if you are looking to check riding in a hot air balloon off your bucket list!

In response to the one bad reviewer who is...

Today was very special for me because this was apart of my 62nd birthday gift to me. Due to weather conditions the ride had to be postponed several times from August 17th.
I can truly say that it was truly a blessing. The amazing view from 2500 ft was unparalleled. Seeing the sunrise, the birds flying below us and the city of Columbus in the distance was spectacular. I might have to do this...

Russ is an awesome pilot. Great experience. Russ and his crew did a fantastic job documenting the balloon flight, taking great pictures . We were able to enjoy the flight, be in the moment. Thanks Russ and crew.

Russ and his crew were excellent!! They were kind, respectful and fun. They include you in the process and in learning about ballooning. I would highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts to everyone. I could not have asked for a better experience!

We had an outstanding experience with Russ and his crew. From the moment I reached out to him, he was ver informative, responded right away (even tho it was after business hours), he was on top of things every day updating on weather conditions and preparation. It was very transparent on things to expect and etc. very detailed preparation, I was very impressed. The flight itself was phenomenal. We were very lucky by his expertise,...

I was able to take a ride on my 30th birthday, and the experience was nothing short of AMAZING. From the time I called to inquiry about the ride until the time we landed and help pack up the balloon Russ made us feel comfortable and safe! He was in constant contact with me leading up to the flight informing me of weather conditions and ride information. I’ve already had several people asked me about...

We used their services for a tethered ride for a large event. They got as many people in the air as possible and even stayed later since they had to delay putting the balloon up because of wind conditions. We had great comments from visitors that got to take the ride, but others were disappointed that space was so limited. That was no fault to Russ and his crew. They did a great job!

The best activity I could have imagined for a surprise to my husband is a balloon flight and Russ and his team made it a memorable one . The list is long , he helped us find the perfect baby sitter for my daughter , gave the perfect day and sunset view for the tour , made an enjoyable ride in the air , captured the perfect pictures n video for us and I hope...

Great communication, professional, you feel safe, they make it fun, attention to detail especially if it’s a special event (we celebrated birthdays), great & friendly crew! I looked around and in the central Ohio area nothing even compares.

After the flight we received some cool photos & certificates! Amazing experience start to finish- exceeded any expectations.

Our family had such a great time on our first ever hot air balloon ride. Rus was professional & kind, puttin g us at ease by explaining everything. Helping with set up and clean up was also a fun part of the process. Such a memorable experience we will all cherish. We are so happy to have our time lapse video and pictures to remember it all!

Super cool experience! We were impressed with the team’s professionalism and experience. Russ is very funny and very knowledgeable on the history of ballooning!

They take lots of professional quality photos from both the ground and air!

My fiancé and I would definitely recommend them!

Such an amazing time! Can’t explain the feeling to anyone being up in the sky. Crew very nice and informative. My girlfriend and I went and we got to see a beautiful sunrise as well as go over Alum Creek. Love how they take pictures and do a video of the whole experience so you can always remember. If I could give them 6 stars I would! I highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts for anyone who...

Columbus Aeronauts has been one of the greatest experiences that I have ever had. Being able to fly high in the sky and see the beautiful sites of Ohio has only helped me love and appreciate my city and state. Mr. Russell Jurg is one of the best hot air balloon pilots in the business. What I enjoyed and liked the most about flying with Russell was his high knowledge and awareness for safety.

I...

My husband and I had such a great time. If you have never been on a hot air balloon ride I highly recommend it. I was nervous at first, but completely trusted the pilot 100%;)This was an early bday surprise that I will never forget. Thanks Bryan and Russ for making this happen.

I was a bit skeptical at first since I’ve never done anything like this. After meeting up with the guys that morning I could tell they were very prepared and experienced. After watching them unpack a 300+lb balloon and start filling with air at a very impressive speed I could tell they’ve done this many times. I was no longer nervous about traveling 5,000ft upward in their hands. Overall great flight. Great communication. Great time....

Such an amazing experience! Russ and the crew were beyond awesome and it was truly an experience of a lifetime. Thank you for making us feel safe and special! Will recommend to everyone I know!! ❤️❤️🎈 Would make for the perfect gift for any occasion, spend money on experiences, not things!!! You won’t regret it.

Fantastic air ballooning experience. First time going up and won’t be the last. Russ was a great host and pilot and the rest of the crew were friendly. I’d highly recommend this for any resident in the area to do with their friends and family.

Absolutely amazing. The owner Russ and all of the staff were extremely polite and very friendly. Everything was professionally done. I went there with my girlfriend to surprise her for our first year of dating. My instructor/pilot was Charlie. Charlie was not only the best, but he had a great sense of humor as well. Really appreciate you guys, thanks again!!

Absolutely loved it! An experience everyone should have. This made our 25 wedding anniversary very memorable. I loved that we had several other balloons to watch also. My husband is already saying he can’t wait to do it again.

We had a great experience with a hot air balloon ride for the 1st annual Liberty Lift Off Hot Air Balloon Festival! Russ and his team are fantastic! Highly recommend for anyone wanting an unforgettable and unique experience!

Russ, Anthony, and Team were knowledgeable, professional, and fun. We enjoyed the experience and would highly recommend taking the trip with the Columbus Aeronauts. We could not have had a better ride.

AWESOME!!! My family took their first hot air balloon ride and could not have had a better experience. The team was very courteous, professional, informative and fun. Took time to explain the process and took pictures for you from start to finish. I would 💯 % use this company again in the future. Look no further for a company to fulfill your dream of a hot air balloon ride. This is the BEST!!

Russ (and his entire team) run a top-notch organization and they will provide you with a amazing experience. We couldn’t have been happier with the entire process – from the communication (pre-flight and during) to the actual flight experience…it was all great. We couldn’t recommend them more!!

We had a blast soaring to new heights with Columbus Aeronauts! Not only were the views amazing, the team was great! They made us feel welcome and safe throughout the whole experience!

Going up with Russ was so much fun! He makes sure you’re comfortable and is very knowledgeable about lighter-than-air balloons. It’s awesome to see the whole process from start to finish. Highly recommend and would do it all again!

Arranged a balloon ride for a friend and couldn’t have been happier with the results. Russ and his staff are awesome, the pictures are breathtaking and the experience amazing. I am currently planning a trip for another friend (and when I’m done planning for others I will plan one for myself).

If your a person who like to check off your bucket list than this is the team to do it with. The professionism, safety, and entertainment was key. The sunrise flight was not only beautiful, crisp, but peaceful all at the same time. Already planning for a evening flight.

On Monday night we flew over plain city/marysville area! I cannot express enough how amazing this flight was. The crew was beyond professional, flexible, and fun! We spent the entire evening laughing and enjoying ourselves. Truly a memory to cherish for a lifetime! Thank you Columbus Aeronauts LLC!

We drove 3 hours to fly with Columbus Aeronauts and it was well worth it! They are professional, highly skilled, courteous and reasonably priced. They really made the entire experience enjoyable and memorable.

I had an amazing experience in the Hot air balloon with pilot Russ. This was a perfect date night experience and I enjoyed watching the sunset over the beautiful fields of Ohio. I highly recommend this experience with Aeronuats!

Got to go in a hot air balloon for my 18th birthday, with Russ as our guide! He was knowledgeable, funny, and personal all while remaining professional. Would definitely go again!

Safe, knowledgeable, and professional! What they do is very special. They helped me create a memory for my wife, that We’ll never forget. I’m not that great at coming up with stuff for us, but I got this one right!! Couldn’t have done it without Russ, Scott, or Anthony. thank you guys very much. Stay safe! God bless all of you!

Looking for something adventurous to do that is a beautiful experience while in the Columbus, Ohio area? Check out Columbus Aeronauts. Ask to speak to Russ. Great guy to work with, friendly and timely responses.

I definitely recommend Columbus Aeronauts! The flight was awesome and fun. They were very customer friendly and I would recommend doing a hot air balloon flight. Something we would definitely do again.

Incredible Experience, Russ is knowledgeable and exceptionally positive. Could not have had a better time! A must to-do for anyone wanting to experience hot air ballooning!!

3D sailing with Balloon will be fun if you get the right captain!!

We had an absolutely amazing experience. Russ, Anthony and Cooper were great!! We couldn’t have asked for any better day and I would highly recommend them!! Their knowledge and experience was over the top as well. They were so much fun and we couldn’t have enjoyed it any more!!

More amazing than I have dreamed. Absolutely breathtaking. Staff was awesome , and I am ready for another

I would highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts! The crew and pilot were extremely nice and informational! My sister and I had a blast, and it was an unforgettable moment! I would highly recommend checking them out for a fun and unique experience 🙂

Russ and his crew are wonderful! Had an amazing time! I have (and will continue to) refer friends to Columbus Aeronauts!

I very much enjoyed my experience working with Russ and Columbus Aeronauts. They worked very hard to ensure that things went smoothly. The ride was amazing!

Columbus Aeronauts went above and beyond (pun intended) what we could have asked for on our first balloon ride. Our pilot let us know step by step what was to coming. You looking to fly, look these guys up. 👍🏻👍🏻

Great communication. Professional. Overall the perfect experience we were looking for. We can’t wait for our next adventure. We did the sunrise but would love to experience the sunset as well. Thank you to the whole crew!

Very Professional ! Explained everything before it happened. Great Pilot. My family and I had a blast. Very thankful we got this experience with Columbus Aeronaut’s. Thanks for a great time !!

It was the experience of a lifetime! Russ and his team were fun and friendly. They really love what they do. Thanks guys for making it one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. C. Kiener

I scheduled a ballon flight as a surprise for my dad”s birthday! The entire experience was amazing from beginning to end. Russ was very responsive to texts and questions, arrived promptly, explained everything in detail and made sure the flight was enjoyable for everyone. I would definitely recommend flying with Columbus Aeronauts!

One of the best experience my GF and i have ever had! Best way to see the sunrise and and Russ makes the experience that much better! A must do if in the columbus area!!!

What an amazing experience. The view was breathtaking and the crew was awesome also. So glad we were able to do this. Thanks guys!!

This was the most amazing experience, words can’t describe it! I highly recommend Columbus Aeronauts. If you ever have the opportunity for a hot air balloon ride, don’t pass it up!

Best hot air balloon experience in the greater Columbus area. Russ and his crew are top notch!

Hi I had a great experience at Aeronauts and also it was a incredible ride and I was so glad I did the ride

Russ and crew were awesome! Thanks for first time balloon ride!

Thank you for a wonderful trip was the best day I have ever had my grandson says it’s the best day of his life an will remember it always 💕 my mother is still bragging an laughing telling her friends all about it an can’t wait to go back the scenery was breathtaking an just amazing we whole heatedly lived EVERYTHING thank you Russ Scott an Amy was truly a pleasure.

This group is exceedingly professional, courteous, and highly skilled as well as talented and well-organized. Could not have asked for a better team to handle a Bucket List endeavor! Wish I could have given more than 5 stars.

This was an amazing experience and I would recommend to anyone especially with Columbus Aeronautics with Russ and his team!!

Russ and the crew were A+! Enjoyable and fun experience from start to finish. 11/10 recommend.

Wonderful experience! Highly recommend.

The balloon ride was awesome and the owner was super nice and very helpful with our scheduling issues.

The Oakley is a beautiful balloon, Russ and crew are great and the entire experience amazing ❤️!

Russ and his team were amazing. this is truly something that everyone should do at least once in their life.

We had a beautiful Sunrise balloon ride! Very knowledgeable & professional! Will do it again!

I had an awesome experience today on my air balloon flight. ~Patricia

This was my first time in a hot air balloon, but it was absolutely beautiful and staff was super nice! Highly recommend!:)

Absolutely loved our ride! Highly recommend!! Crew is fantastic!

Great experience! Would definitely do it again!

Wonderful experience

Awesome experience!
Well qualified safety is the first priority!
Would do again and again

Russ was knowledgeable, accommodating, and fun!

Really fun time. All the people there were friendly and knowledgeable

What an absolutely incredible experience definitely something more people should think about doing

Nice

Just an incredible experience!

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