AEROSTAR RX-8
Albuquerque, NM — October 2, 2016
Event Information
| Date | October 2, 2016 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN17CA013 |
| Event ID | 20161010X95159 |
| Location | Albuquerque, NM |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 35.13445, -106.61444 |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | AEROSTAR |
| Model | RX-8 |
| Category | BALL |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 2 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 2 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's improperly planned landing, which resulted in a strike with power lines.
Full Narrative
The hot air free balloon was participating in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. According to the pilot, he was approaching a vacant field for landing after a one-hour flight. The pilot approached the field from about 8 feet above the ground and the envelope impacted an unnoticed power line during landing. The pilot deflated the envelope, but the wind pulled the envelope and basket into the lines, which resulted in arcing against the uprights and frame.
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.