After leaving Brno, our next stop was Kubicek Balloons. This company produces many different products including recreational, racing, commercial, and promotional balloons. The company was founded during the Communist era. During this period Kubicek needed to use clever tactics to get the rights from the government because of the fear that people would use balloons to escape across borders. Kubicek suggested to the communist government that Kubicek could use balloons to transport parts for nuclear power plants. This rationale seemed to work.
In addition to learning about the history of the company, we also learned about the many different uses, shapes, and balloon designs. The balloon shapes vary, even coming in special designs such as a cathedral balloon. Our visit began with a slideshow showing us some of the different products Kubicek offers. We then headed upstairs to the manufacturing floor where we saw balloon panels being cut and sewed together. Finally we saw the baskets being woven. Seeing such a unique product being made by hand was amazing. The only thing missing from the experience was watching a test flight in the field outside the factory – and a balloon ride!
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