At Global Ballooning, we’re not just about flying high; we’re about breaking barriers too. In the spirit of International Women’s Day 2024, we are celebrating Scarlett Saunders, a remarkable talent whose ballooning journey epitomises our commitment to fostering female leadership in the aviation industry.
Scarlett’s love affair with ballooning began at a young age, nurtured by her father, Kiff Saunders, CEO, and owner of Global Ballooning as well as her brothers Edward and Pato, who are also commercial pilots at Global Ballooning and accomplished balloonists. From early on, Scarlett showed a passion and dedication that set her on a trajectory to success.
Undertaking her altitude record attempt from Deniliquin in Southern NSW, Scarlett aimed to establish a challenging women’s record in Class E airspace. Despite facing unfavourable weather forecasts and technical complexities, Scarlett’s poise and persistence prevailed as she soared to an impressive altitude of 23,714 feet, demonstrating exceptional courage and skill. In the realm of adventure flights, meticulous planning is not just beneficial but essential, especially when it comes to altitude flights which demand a comprehensive understanding of both human physiology and technical aerodynamics.
After completing her initial flying training in the stunning Mansfield region, Scarlett’s journey took her across Australia and Europe, where she honed her skills and showcased her talent. From snagging the coveted ‘Rookie of the Year’ title at the 2023 National Hot Air Ballooning Championships in Northam to helping Team Australia clinch a glorious victory at the Women’s World Hot Air Ballooning Championship that same year, Scarlett’s achievements are nothing short of legendary.
But Scarlett’s journey doesn’t stop there. She recently achieved a significant milestone by earning her license to fly a 16-person balloon, marking a new chapter in her ballooning career. This accomplishment not only underscores her skill and expertise but also highlights her growth and advancement at Global Ballooning.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, Scarlett’s success serves as a beacon of inspiration. We’re beyond proud to have Scarlett as part of the Global Ballooning family, and we can’t wait to see where her boundless spirit takes her next. Watch this space – and maybe the sky, too!
