Why Air Ventures?

Air Ventures is a female-owned and operated hot air balloon company that opened in 1990. Debbie Harding opened the business with the simple mission of sharing her passion for the sport with others and bringing smiles to faces rather than the frowns she received during her previous employment in social services. Her team comprises family members, long-time local and international professionals, experienced pilots, and both experienced long-time and newly trained crew. Some of her new crew members are the sons and daughters of the crew, who were impacted by their parent's experiences when they came along for the ride. She has piloted the company through the 2008 economic stresses and the unique circumstances of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. She credits her commitment to the joys of the sport of ballooning for her successes.

The hot air balloon team also includes four balloons suited for different applications, including two state-of-the-art, top-of-the-line (gorgeous) Kubicek balloons, with baskets featuring walk-in doors and three comfortable recovery vehicles. As a team, she has worked successfully with well-known local companies such as SMS, Unisys, The Dupont Company, Dupont Country Club, Waynesboro Country Club, 84 Lumber, Cross Creek Residential Home, and national companies like RMA, T-Moble, and Penn Titles. The company also has provided organized balloon "vacations" to international locations and local balloon festivals, all just for fun!