Pilot Debrief

LINDSTRAND 69A near Longview, TX — 2010-07-30

Final reportCEN10CA456
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Date
2010-07-30
Location
Longview, TX, USA
Aircraft
LINDSTRAND 69A
Registration
N96LN
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

The the pilot's inadvertent movement of the burner assembly off center resulting in an in-flight fire of the skirt and envelope of the balloon. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's attention being diverted to venting the envelope to avoid an obstacle and lose altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was on approach to a target at the Great Texas Balloon Race. Witnesses said that it appeared the balloon was slightly below a set of telephone wires as it approached the target area. The pilot saw the wires and took action to clear the lines. However, as he leaned over the side of the basket to see the obstacle better, he inadvertently pulled the burner assembly off center of the envelope throat. The burner then ignited the skirt and 22 envelope panels. The pilot landed the balloon was immediately.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have ensured burner assembly was secure before approach.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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