Abruzzo's achievement brought ballooning increased attention from outside the balloon world, and a more widespread appreciation of the sport. Meeting other balloon pilots is part of the enjoyment of flying, Smitana said, especially at large flying events such as the Kodak International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Balloonists keep track of each other by trading information cards and pins bearing their craft's image and pilot's history. Balloon pilots also recognize each other through the color scheme and name of their balloon. Among the color and camaraderie, however, Smitana stressed that hot air balloon pilots are more than just hobbyists.
Balloonists have to gain a certain amount of flight hours to be licensed to fly.
He said ballooning is a comparatively safe sport, but like most activities, experience and education is the key to keeping it safe. In his more than 3,000 flights, Smitana has not suffered one balloon-related injury. Plus, every pilot needs to take a biannual inspection to recertify. A balloon is an aircraft that can cause a lot of damage if you don't know how to use it. Smitana shares his love of ballooning with school children throughout the Southwest by visiting and demonstrating the sport's science with the help of radio control balloon models that get students excited.