GRAEME HOUSTON

A highly accomplished and safety-conscious Commercial Hot Air Balloon Pilot with over 1,850 flight hours . Recognized as the most experienced licensed balloon pilot in Scotland, with an extensive international portfolio covering Europe, Africa, North America, and Southeast Asia. Expert in operational management, aviation safety, and high-end customer relations , complemented by professional skills in photography and team leadership.

• Line Pilot, Governors' Balloon Safaris, Mara Triangle, Kenya, 2025-06-01, 2025-11-30, Conducted commercial flight operations within the Mara Triangle, managing high-capacity passenger loads in a premier safari environment.
• Line Pilot, Mara Wildlife Balloon Services, Keekorok, Masai Mara, Kenya, 2025-01-01, 2025-06-30, Based at Keekorok, provided professional flight services over the Masai Mara, ensuring passenger safety and a high-end safari experience.
• Line Pilot, Virgin Balloon Flights, 2022-04-01, Present, Commanding Cameron A400 aircraft, maintaining the highest standards of safety and passenger experience.
• Managing Director & Chief Pilot, Scotair Balloons, 1992-02-01, 2012-02-29, Founded Scotland's premier ballooning business, managing all logistics, maintenance, and staff. Pioneered digital marketing for the industry, launching one of the first sector-specific websites in 1998. Maintained corporate contracts for high-profile brands including RE/MAX and Muller-Wiseman.
• Chief Pilot, Windship Aviation, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, 2012-07-01, 2012-10-31, Overseeing full flight operations and passenger liaison to clear an extensive backlog.
• Line / Chief Pilot, Adventures Aloft, Tarangire National Park, Tanzania, 2011-06-01, 2011-10-31, Operated and improved a new flight operation in Tarangire, managing staff and a 16-person flight crew.
• Global Flight Contracts, Various Operators, Balloons Over Bagan, Myanmar, Line Pilot responsible for company-wide flight operations., Goreme Balloons, Turkey, Line Pilot for one of the world's largest ride operators in Cappadocia.

• Professional Photography
• Motorcycling
• Kayaking
• Cinema
• Travel

• Kayak Guide
• 3 Channel Crossings
• Airship Pilot