Pilot Debrief

CAMERON BALLOONS U S A-315 near Phoenix, AZ — 2021-12-20

Final reportWPR22LA066
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Date
2021-12-20
Location
Phoenix, AZ, USA
Aircraft
CAMERON BALLOONS U S A-315
Registration
N317RR
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inability to maintain balloon control during a high wind landing, which resulted in a serious passenger injury.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the balloon reported that, while maneuvering to land, he was informed via radio that the wind speed had increased during the flight from about 4 mph to about 14 mph. While on final approach to land, he descended the balloon to about 6 ft above the surface to mitigate surface wind and to level off and fly to the clearing where the balloon landed. After touchdown, the basket was drug on the ground about 20 ft until the balloon came to a complete stop and the envelope deflated. The balloon was not damaged; however, a passenger was seriously injured with a fractured ankle. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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