THUNDER & COLT AX8 105S2
Albuquerque, NM — August 2, 2015
Event Information
| Date | August 2, 2015 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN15CA340 |
| Event ID | 20150806X33313 |
| Location | Albuquerque, NM |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 35.20111, -106.67722 |
| Highest Injury | SERS |
Aircraft
| Make | THUNDER & COLT |
| Model | AX8 105S2 |
| Category | BALL |
| FAR Part | 091 |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 1 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot did not properly brace herself during the landing, which resulted in a broken ankle and leg.
Full Narrative
The pilot stated that the balloon flight was normal with light and variable wind conditions. The pilot stated she informed the passenger that the basket may "hop" a couple of times during the landing and told him to brace himself. When the balloon basket touched the ground, the pilot's foot became wedged between the sidewall of the basket and one of the fuel tanks. The pilot lost her balance, her body shifted, and she felt her ankle fracture. She told the passenger to continue pulling the deflation line. The envelope deflated quickly and the basket laid down onto its side. There was no damage to the envelope or basket. The pilot suffered a broken ankle and leg.
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.