Jordi Aracil: Chief Pilot IB Ballooning

When he's not flying he likes nothing better than spending time with his family and making what he says is the best paella on the Island!

Hi Jordi, tell us a little bit about your business, how it started out and where you're based...

After 15 years of flying balloons, I wanted to change something, to offer more quality and exclusivity to our customers and to open in the winter season. We are based in Cala Ratjada, but we fly all over the island.

How long have you been in your current role and how long have you been with the company?

I’ve been working with balloons since 1989 and the company IB Ballooning was founded 2006 to offer regular evening flights starting with the coast areas of Mallorca.

What makes Mallorca a special place to be for someone in your profession / in general?

Mallorca is wonderful for all professions, but for a balloonist it's perfect to see the mountains and sea of the island. It’s a special landscape and the view from up high is unique.

What are the best bits about your job?

I always tell people that I have the best job in the world, because making people happy on one of our flights is great - you really make their dreams come true. It's fun to work with people who like adventure and different activities, not just hte beaches and night life.

And the worst bits?

If we have to cancel for bad weather conditions and somebody is dissapointed. Safety first though!

What is in store for the future with your business, any exciting projects in the pipelines that you can share with us?

New for 2014 we'll be offering flights above the mountains (Serra Tramuntana) and it’s magic to fly there, believe me!

What are you personal and professional goals for the future?

Personal…just good health. Professional goals are to continue to have happy and satisfied customers.

Where would send someone who was after that something 'something special' in resort, to stay, eat or drink?

The offer is too big and too good, it’s difficult for me to choose one restaurant or hotel...

Where will we find the best coffee, paella or empanades?

The best paella in Mallorca it’s….mine, hahaha!

What has been your best ever day in Mallorca?

The birth of my son.

Do you remember your first trip to the Island?

Yes, 1984, I was thirteen and travelled with my parents for a weekend. I didn’t know that my future will be in Mallorca few years later…..

What do you do when you're not working?

Enjoy the Island and my family.

Which is your favourite shop in Mallorca?

Madventure in Valldemossa.

Yachts or speedboats? What's your preference & why?

Both. I like the sea very much.

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Have a look at our video when James went for a flight with them over Cala Millor. If you'd like to join Jordi on a spectacular flight above Mallorca, you can find more details and how to contact the company here.