Pilot Debrief

LINDSTRAND BALLOONS 90A near Dayton, NV — 2021-05-28

Final reportWPR21LA225
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Date
2021-05-28
Location
Dayton, NV, USA
Aircraft
LINDSTRAND BALLOONS 90A
Registration
N1535G
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the balloon due to an unexpected high surface wind and downdraft, which resulted in a hard landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the balloon reported that, while landing, the wind suddenly shifted from about 1 to 10 miles per hour. The balloon ascended about 200 ft, then began to descend. Despite the use of both burners, the pilot was unable to arrest the descent. The basket struck the ground and tipped forward where she was partially ejected while pulling the deflation line. The balloon then began to ascend, and rotate, while the pilot continued to pull the deflation line, she was then fully ejected from the basket. Unable to hold onto the deflation line, she dropped about 15 to 20 ft to the ground and was seriously injured with a broken pelvis and three fractured vertebrae. One of the passengers continued to pull the deflation line and the balloon landed without damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported the forecast indicated calm wind at the surface.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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