Pilot Debrief

AEROSTAR INTERNATIONAL INC RAVEN S49A near Tracy, CA — 2009-04-18

Final reportWPR09CA207
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Date
2009-04-18
Location
Tracy, CA, USA
Aircraft
AEROSTAR INTERNATIONAL INC RAVEN S49A
Registration
N6378E
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power lines.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that while approaching an open field for landing, the balloon suddenly slowed down. Shortly after, he noticed that the balloon had contacted power line wires and that the lines were traveling down the side of the balloon's envelope and uprights and trapped his passenger against the basket. The pilot stated that the passenger was able to free herself as he was able to kick the wires from the corner of the basket. The balloon subsequently ascended about 200 feet. The pilot proceeded to initiate a landing in the nearest open field and landed without further incident. The pilot further reported that neither he nor his passenger saw the power lines prior to impact. Examination of the hot air balloon revealed that the envelope and basket sustained minor damage; however, the passenger sustained serious injuries.

NTSB coding

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