Accident Details
Date
Sunday, February 15, 2015
NTSB Number
GAA15CA039
Location
Bernalillo, NM
Event ID
20150414X10528
Coordinates
35.323055, -106.561943
Aircraft Damage
Unknown
Highest Injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
1
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
3
Total Aboard
4
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain the descent rate, resulting in abnormal runway/ground contact.
Aircraft Information
Year Built
2013
Model / ICAO
Z90 - NO SERIES
Aircraft Type
Balloon
No. of Engines
0
Seats
1
FAA Model
Z-90
Registered Owner (Current)
Name
COFFING STEPHEN
Address
11716 GLENDALE AVE NE
City
ALBUQUERQUE
State / Zip Code
NM 87122-4126
Country
United States
Analysis
The pilot determined that the wind was faster than anticipated at the landing location. He maneuvered the balloon for a landing in an open field, the gondola landed hard, and fell onto its side. One passenger sustained a broken leg and the balloon sustained no damage.
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon prior to the flight that would have precluded normal operation of the balloon.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA15CA039