AEROSTAR INTERNATIONAL INC RAVEN S49A
Tracy, CA — April 18, 2009
Event Information
| Date | April 18, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR09CA207 |
| Event ID | 20090421X23644 |
| Location | Tracy, CA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 37.68889, -121.44139 |
| Highest Injury | SERS |
Aircraft
| Make | AEROSTAR INTERNATIONAL INC |
| Model | RAVEN S49A |
| Category | BALL |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | MINR |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 1 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power lines.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that while approaching an open field for landing, the balloon suddenly slowed down. Shortly after, he noticed that the balloon had contacted power line wires, and the lines were traveling down the side of the balloons envelope and uprights and trapped his passenger against the basket. The pilot stated that the passenger was able to free herself as he was able to kick the wires from the corner of the basket. The balloon subsequently ascended about 200 feet. The pilot proceeded to initiate a landing in the nearest open field and landed without further incident. The pilot further reported that neither he nor his passenger saw the power lines prior to the balloon impacting them. Examination of the hot air balloon revealed that the envelope and basket sustained minor damage; however, the passenger sustained serious injuries.
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.