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Meet Shane Cory of Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Rides – Aerogelic Ballooning in North Phoenix

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Shane Cory.

Shane, owner/operator of Aerogelic Ballooning, is a third generation pilot; and second generation owner of one of the first commercial Hot Air Balloon Companies to emerge in Arizona in the mid 70’s.

Her parents, Phillip & Angelica Cory, both commercial pilots, had their first hot air balloon “adventure” in 1973. Launching the Great Pumpkin, a New Mexico owned hot air balloon, in the desert behind their Mesa, AZ residence began a serendipitous journey that would later evolve into a family legacy. In 1974 Douglas Cory of Flagstaff, AZ was the first member of the Cory family and one of the first people in the State of Arizona to actually purchase a Hot Air Balloon. He is now the current owner of Northern Lights Balloon Expeditions of Sedona, Arizona.

Once Phil & Angelica Cory were struck with the magic of the sport they bought their first corporate hot air balloon “The Cory Bubble”, [Cory Gasoline Stations, Inc.], which arrived on the day of Shane’s birth in 1976. Shane was initiated with his first hot air balloon ride at the age of 2 weeks old; therein beginning a legacy that would expand 2 generations with a perfect safety record in the State of Arizona.

Cory Bubble Balloons, piloted by Phillip Cory followed in his brother’s footsteps as one of the first commercial hot air balloon ride companies in Arizona, flying thousands of passengers and training dozens of today’s current pilots. Cory Bubble Balloons specialized in exclusive balloon flights for VIP’s, CEO’s and Hollywood celebrities. Highly regarded as a renowned commercial balloon pilot, Phillip Cory was also offered numerous corporate advertising contracts a couple of the more recognizable feats was contracting to fly the KNIX; hot air balloon, KDKB hot air balloon, & the Toyota hot air balloon.

At the young age of eighteen (18), Shane Douglas Cory, a seasoned balloonist by this time, began his ‘lighter-than-air’ pilot training. By age twenty-three (23), Shane had secured his commercial pilots certificate and began flying as a hired pilot for Cory Bubble Ballooning and several other local companies. In year 2000, Shane took ownership of Cory Bubble Ballooning, now doing business as Aerogelic Ballooning LLC. Shane Cory has also flown all over the world within his career while flying world famous special shaped balloons such as “The Little Bees”, the “American Eagle”, a lady bug, etc.… He has flown in places such as Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, all over north America, and many more adventurous locations to offer stories, and experience of lifetimes.

Aerogelic Ballooning offers Arizona hot air balloon flights in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and southeast valley areas, specializing in premier hot air balloon rides, corporate hot air balloon advertising and adventure hot air balloon tours.

Aerogelic Ballooning presents hot air balloon rides promising only premier balloon rides for group passengers or VIP guests. They specifically operate with smaller balloons, creating more of the true hot air balloon adventure for their customers. Aerogelic Ballooning can now handle groups of up to twenty to thirty passengers per day, while still personalized and extending premier service for each and every passenger.

Has it been a smooth road?
To answer it’s been a smooth road is lie for any business. Since 1976 there has been many ups and downs (pun intended). Recessions, 9/11, and of course many changes with regulatory agencies. What we believe gets us through the struggles is the fact that none of our equipment or overhead is rented, leased, or loaned on. We own everything and only spend with what we have. So with determination and creativity along with low overhead we carry on.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Rides – Aerogelic Ballooning – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
The oldest hot air balloon company in Arizona with a perfect safety record. We family owned and operated since 1976. We specialize in smaller groups versus tour groups i.e. couples and families.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Phoenix has the best climate in the country. Near perfect temperature 9-10 months per year. Beautiful deserts and open area for outdoor activities. Almost a dozen nearby lakes for water sports, 100’s of designated trails for off-roading nearby, and only a few hours away from the forests for high country activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking.

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Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.

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