Pilot Debrief

KUBICEK FACTORY S R O BB26M near La Verkin, UT — 2026-01-10

Final reportWPR26LA079
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Date
2026-01-10
Location
La Verkin, UT, USA
Aircraft
KUBICEK FACTORY S R O BB26M
Registration
N90MN
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from powerlines after an aborted landing attempt.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the balloon reported that during the flight, the wind pattern changed, and the balloon had traveled toward a congested area. The pilot attempted to land in a clearing, however, decided to abort the landing with the application of the burners to initiate a climb. Subsequently, the pilot realized that the balloon would not clear a set of power lines ahead of their position and pulled out the top of the balloon to expedite a descent. The balloon impacted the power lines and support pole, which resulted in substantial damage to multiple basket suspension cables. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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