Pilot Debrief

KUBICEK FACTORY S R O BB26Z near Casper, WY — 2024-07-13

Final reportWPR24LA245
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Date
2024-07-13
Location
Casper, WY, USA
Aircraft
KUBICEK FACTORY S R O BB26Z
Registration
N307CK
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain control of the balloon after encountering high wind conditions and windshear during the landing, which resulted in the pilot’s ejection from the basket and serious injury.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the balloon stated reported that, during the hour-long flight, the surface winds had increased. During the landing, the pilot “vented out the air to descend” and the balloon “hit the ground hard.” Witnesses who observed the balloon’s approach to the landing field stated the balloon began a rapid descent. Subsequently, the balloon landed hard, and the basket tipped over. The pilot was ejected, resulting in serious injury. The balloon pilot reported 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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