skinny.

Latest / Inspired Travels With Patti

What It’s Like to Fly in a Hot Air Balloon (With a 40-Year Pilot)

What does it really feel like to fly in a hot air balloon? In this episode of Inspired Travels with Patti, i (Patti) reconnect veteran balloon pilot Tom Russo to unpack the unforgettable experience of ballooning, from the science behind inflation to the thrill (and strategy) of landing.

Tom shares his 40+ year journey into ballooning, beginning with a chance encounter in Brooklyn and leading to flights across festivals, commercial rides, and corporate events. Together, we explore the unique emotional, technical, and visual elements that make ballooning one of the most magical travel…

The skinny

The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.