Pilot Debrief

LINSTRAND 240A near Mayer, AZ — 2014-04-14

Final reportWPR14CA168
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Date
2014-04-14
Location
Mayer, AZ, USA
Aircraft
LINSTRAND 240A
Registration
N2646Z
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The balloon's encounter with unexpected increased wind, which resulted in a hard landing on rough terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that he checked the weather in the early morning, which prepared him for light wind conditions. After inflation of the balloon, he performed a safety briefing for the passengers and departed shortly thereafter. When the balloon was en route, the ground crew advised the pilot of the high wind conditions. The pilot stated that he was not able to operate in his usual area and therefore had to maneuver the balloon over inhospitable terrain in conditions that did not allow for an immediate landing. The pilot gave the passengers a landing briefing relaying the information that an unexpected increase in surface wind speed prohibited them from landing in the areas that were originally intended. The pilot felt he had limited options suitable for landing and with canyons approaching, he opted to touchdown in an area of rough, volcanic rock. During landing, the basket was strewn across the rough rocky terrain and sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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