Pilot Debrief

ULTRAMAGIC SA M56C near Indianola, IA — 2022-08-04

Final reportCEN22LA365
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Date
2022-08-04
Location
Indianola, IA, USA
Aircraft
ULTRAMAGIC SA M56C
Registration
N801UM
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from powerlines.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was participating in a balloon event that consisted of dropping markers on targets at various locations. While approaching the final target, he crossed some trees about 200 ft above ground level (agl) in a descent. After crossing the trees, when the balloon was about 20 ft agl, he heard someone announce “powerline” over his crew radio and saw approaching powerlines above his line of sight. He immediately pulled his deflation line and shut off the fuel tanks. The balloon subsequently contacted the powerlines, which resulted in electrical arcing and the basket impacted the ground. The balloon sustained substantial damage to the envelope and the basket. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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