Bert Padelt receives his Montgolfier Diplomas at the National Aeronautic Association's Fall Award's Banquet November 7, 2011.

For Contributions to the Sport of Ballooning.

Bert Padelt is a balloon system designer and builder who has developed a modern light weight, affordable gas balloon system that is widely used by gas balloonists both in the United States and internationally. His designs and systems have advanced the service of gas ballooning around the world.

Each year the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) awards The Montgolfier Diploma for three categories, best sporting performance for gas and hot air and a major contribution to the sport in general.  This year the BFA is honored to celebrate two of our members who were recognized for their efforts by this distinguished award.