Pilots: Park City Hot Air Balloon Rides
Daren B. Wilde Chief Pilot
Daren has always had his eye to the sky. From an early age he knew what he was going
to do when (and if) he ever grew up. Daren started flying back in 1985 and couldn't
get enough of it. The following year he started attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical
University in Prescott, Az. He continued with his flight training and earned a B.S.
in Aeronautical Studies. The next year he began his flight studies with the USAF.
As a pilot with the USAF Daren had the opportunity to fly the T-37 and T-1A Jayhawk.
After completing his military service Daren moved back home to Utah and was in search
of his new adventure. He started flying Hot Air Balloons in 2001 and was hooked
for life. By the end of 2001 he had purchased Morning Star Balloons and he hasn't
looked back since. Daren has amassed over 3000 flight hours with over 1400 of those
in Hot Air Balloons. Daren is proud of his perfect safety record and continues to
make safety a top priority with his flying and his company. You can feel confident
going on hot air balloon rides in Utah with Daren.
Bill Dobbs
Bill is one of the most experienced balloon pilots you will ever meet. The son of
a Korean War ace in the F-86, Bill began his flying career back in 1978. He has
amassed well over 6000 hours flying Hot Air Balloons. He honed his skills on the
competition circuit where he won 54 competitions and placed in the top 5 in over
250 more. For 15 years Bill earned his keep by winning prize money at competitions
all over the world. He has flown in every size balloon from 66,000 cubic feet to
the 245,000 that we fly here at Morning Star Balloons. Since joining the staff here
at Morning Star Balloons he has become the most requested pilot around. “WILD” Bill,
as he is known (more like “MILD” Bill these days) is also in very high demand as
an instructor. He has provided instruction for students from all over the world.
With over 30 years flight experience in Hot Air Balloons Bill has a perfect safety
record. Bill is a valuable member of our flight team. We are very lucky to have
him with us. For hot air balloon rides, Utah has none other.
When you are ready to go on hot air balloon rides, Park City, Utah’s MorningStar
Balloons is the place to go.
