N5161Y

Substantial
Minor

AEROSTAR RX-8S/N: 3318

Accident Details

Date
Sunday, October 2, 2016
NTSB Number
CEN17CA013
Location
Albuquerque, NM
Event ID
20161010X95159
Coordinates
35.134445, -106.614440
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
2
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
3

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improperly planned landing, which resulted in a strike with power lines.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
AEROSTAR
Serial Number
3318
Engine Type
None
Year Built
1999
Model / ICAO
RX-8AB18
Aircraft Type
Balloon
No. of Engines
0
Seats
1
FAA Model
RX 8

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
FAVERO MARCUS F
Address
11062 PARK PL
City
SMITHFIELD
State / Zip Code
VA 23430-5740
Country
United States

Analysis

The hot air free balloon was participating in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. According to the pilot, he was approaching a vacant field for landing after a one-hour flight. The pilot approached the field from about 8 feet above the ground and the envelope impacted an unnoticed power line during landing. The pilot deflated the envelope, but the wind pulled the envelope and basket into the lines, which resulted in arcing against the uprights and frame.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN17CA013