ULTRAMAGIC N250 - NO SERIES
Phoenix, AZ — September 13, 2014
Event Information
| Date | September 13, 2014 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR14CA396 |
| Event ID | 20140929X71413 |
| Location | Phoenix, AZ |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 33.29000, -112.23750 |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | ULTRAMAGIC |
| Model | N250 - NO SERIES |
| Category | BALL |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 2 |
| None | 9 |
| Total Injured | 2 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control while landing in downdraft and gusting wind conditions which resulted in striking trees and a subsequent hard landing.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that as the balloon descended to land, about 50 feet above ground level, a wind gust and down draft resulted in a rapid descent and subsequent collision with trees. The balloon landed hard and bounced several times. During the accident sequence, the basket flipped onto its side and was dragged in the dirt, which resulted in substantial damage to the structure. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.