LINDSTRAND BALLOONS 90A
Albuquerque, NM — October 10, 2012
Event Information
| Date | October 10, 2012 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN13CA035 |
| Event ID | 20121031X91411 |
| Location | Albuquerque, NM |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 35.19972, -106.58722 |
| Highest Injury | SERS |
Aircraft
| Make | LINDSTRAND BALLOONS |
| Model | 90A |
| 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 balloon pilot's encounter with higher-than-expected wind velocity, which resulted in a hard landing and passenger injury.
Full Narrative
Prior to the flight, the pilot participated in a weather briefing provided by the event organization. Due to high winds at low level, the balloon launch was postponed for about a hour, then approval to launch was granted by the event. At the conclusion of the flight, the pilot initiated an approach to a standard event landing field. During the approach, the wind was at a higher velocity than expected. The pilot briefed the passenger for a fast drag and hard landing. The balloon landed hard and dragged for about 150 feet. The passenger sustained a fractured arm. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failure 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.