Pilot Debrief

LINDSTRAND BALLOONS 90A near Albuquerque, NM — 2012-10-10

Final reportCEN13CA035
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Date
2012-10-10
Location
Albuquerque, NM, USA
Aircraft
LINDSTRAND BALLOONS 90A
Registration
N6061R
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The balloon pilot's encounter with higher-than-expected wind velocity, which resulted in a hard landing and passenger injury.

NTSB narrative

Before the flight, the pilot participated in a weather briefing provided by the event organization. Due to high wind velocities at low level, the balloon launch was postponed for about 1 hour and then approval to launch was granted by event personnel. At the conclusion of the flight, the pilot initiated an approach to a standard event landing field. During the approach, the wind was at a higher velocity than expected. The pilot briefed the passenger for a fast drag and hard landing. The balloon landed hard and dragged for about 150 feet. The passenger sustained a fractured arm. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failure 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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