N290UM

On May 3, 2024, about 1830 Pacific daylight time, an Ultramagic SA Z-90 balloon, N290UM, was involved in an accident near Del Mar, California. The pilot was not injured; however, the passenger was fatally injured. The ballon was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

In a written statement, the pilot reported he launched the balloon with the sole passenger at 1815 for a proposed sunset “celebration of life” flight. At an altitude of about 1,300 ft msl, the passenger asked for privacy for ceremonial reasons, and the pilot turned his back. About 20 to 30 seconds later, the pilot felt a shift in the basket and realized that the passenger had jumped from the ballon. The pilot stated he observed the passenger free falling, but did not see impact with the ground.

He radioed his ground crew and requested that they call 911. About 30 minutes later the pilot landed the ballon and was met by police officers. He provided a statement and returned with them to the ballon later that evening.