Our Story
Who We Are
Yorkshire Balloon Flights is a family run business driven from a passion to share the incredible experience of flight by balloon. Offering Champagne Balloon Flights over the beautiful city of York and surrounding Yorkshire countryside from April – October each year.
Originally, the business was called “Balloon Rides” and was established by the late Tom Donnelly in the 1980s. Now taken over by York resident, Oliver Webb who started working with Tom on his balloon operation as a crew person over 12 years ago.
Oliver has considerable experience flying in the UK and abroad and has great enthusiasm for the sport of hot air ballooning. After your flight, you will have no difficulty getting him to tell you a few ballooning stories.
Meet The Team
Oliver
Ollie is the Owner & Chief Pilot of Yorkshire Balloon Flights. He’s flown balloons in the UK and abroad and has many years of experience. Born and bred in York, Ollie is a true Yorkshire man and loves to show off his home city from the best views possible, by balloon of course!
Ollie said “There’s nothing more peaceful and serene than watching the world go by as you fly over the countryside in a Hot Air Balloon. The most rewarding part of piloting balloons is being able to share the experience and excitement with others.
Alison
Ali is Ollie’s mother and heads up the office operations. She’s always on hand to help you book your flight or answer any queries.
Kim
Kim is Ollie’s partner and manager of our office. She’s a friendly face who's always on hand to help and loves to fly!
Digsy Dog
Our sausage dog Digsy loves coming ballooning. He’s often around or sat in the Land Rover during inflation and take off! He loves the attention!