Aleš Kubíček, the visionary founder of Kubíček Factory and pioneer of Czech hot air ballooning, was officially inducted into the FAI Ballooning Commission Hall of Fame.
On October 4, 2024, at the Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, a truly historic moment took place—not just for our company, but for the entire Czech ballooning community.
This prestigious honor celebrates those whose lifelong contributions have shaped the world of ballooning. And in the case of Aleš Kubíček, the recognition could not be more deserved.
During the ceremony, Aleš’s son Petr Kubíček accepted the award on his behalf. In an emotional and powerful speech, Petr took the audience through Aleš’s extraordinary life journey—from his childhood in a poor family under communist rule, through the construction of the first Czech hot air balloon, all the way to founding a company that now exports balloons, inflatables, and aircraft to every corner of the globe.
“Living ballooning legend, balloon constructor, designer, manufacturer, instructor, visionary—my father Aleš Kubíček,” Petr said on stage. “His bright mind, infinite will, and hard work always kept things going. He found solutions in every situation.”
Aleš was not just a designer and innovator. He was also a pilot, instructor, musician, and mentor to generations of balloonists. His creativity, courage, and foresight continue to guide everything we do at Kubíček Factory.
We were proud to attend the event as a team—together with our international dealers, friends, and fans. It was a moment that reminded us of how far our company has come and how deeply Aleš’s legacy is felt, even far from home.
Special thanks go to Aleš’s wife Naďa, whose patience and support stood behind his lifelong dedication to ballooning.
As Petr said during the ceremony, “History is not about world records—it’s about friendship, family, hard work, and an infinite will to achieve something incredible.” That’s exactly what this honor represents for us.
We continue to be inspired by Aleš’s vision every day—whether we’re launching a new fuel-saving balloon fabric, developing inflatable art installations, or sending ultralight aircraft into the skies.
His place in the FAI Hall of Fame is more than a tribute to his past—it’s a spark for our future.
Thank you to the FAI, the Balloon Museum, and everyone who made this unforgettable moment possible. And thank you, Aleš, for everything you've done—not just for ballooning, but for all of us.
We’re honored. We’re inspired. And we’re proud to carry your legacy onward—into the skies.
