Pilot Debrief

BALLOON WORKS FIREFLY 7-15 near Hallsville, MO — 2012-05-06

Final reportCEN12CA279
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Date
2012-05-06
Location
Hallsville, MO, USA
Aircraft
BALLOON WORKS FIREFLY 7-15
Registration
N9079S
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from power lines during landing.

NTSB narrative

During the slow descent from about 300 feet, the hot air balloon hit power lines. The pilot stated that, as the balloon descended, the wind shifted, and the forward speed of the balloon was reduced. Instead of continuing past the power lines, the gondola of the balloon descended between the power lines, and the envelope of the balloon became entangled in the wires. A postimpact fire ensued, resulting in substantial damage to the envelope and gondola. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical anomalies with the balloon prior to the accident.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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