N6408F

On April 16, 1994, approximately 0945 central daylight time, an Aerostar International RX-7 balloon, N6408F, touched down abruptly while practicing landings in a farm field near Augusta, Kansas. The pilot reported no injuries, the passenger received serious injuries. The balloon was not damaged. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, no flight plan was filed. The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 91, and originated from Derby, Kansas, exact time unknown.

According to the pilot's statement, after practicing three solo touch and go landings, she picked up a passenger for the continuation of the flight. The pilot completed one successful touch and go landing with the passenger aboard, then chose a landing spot two miles downwind. She stated as they neared the selected landing site, she realized it was not very accessible for the chase crew. She radioed instructions to the chase crew for an alternate landing site, and prepared to perform another touch and go landing. The pilot instructed the passenger to brace himself in preparation for the touch and go landing. After venting the balloon to descend, the pilot did a short burn and the balloon bounced while landing. The passenger's ankle was fractured.