Pilot Debrief

CAMERON BALLOONS US ZL-70 near Rio Rancho, NM — 2024-10-09

Final reportWPR25LA081
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Date
2024-10-09
Location
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
Aircraft
CAMERON BALLOONS US ZL-70
Registration
N31010
Category
Balloon
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inability to maintain clearance from a tree during the landing approach due to a gusting wind shift.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the balloon reported that he was descending the balloon to land in a field, with wind coming from the north at about 10 kts. When the balloon was about 30 ft above ground level, the wind shifted and started to come from the northwest with an approximate 15 kt gust. The balloon changed direction during the wind gust and the pilot attempted to correct by burning the balloon’s tow burners, however, the balloon impacted a tree. The balloon sustained minor damage to its basket and envelope, and the passenger sustained serious injuries. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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