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NTSB Report
May 6, 2012 · Balloon Works Firefly 7-15 · N9079S
Hallsville, MO
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 6, 2012
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Hallsville, MO
Aircraft
Balloon Works Firefly 7-15
Tail Number
N9079S
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN12CA279
During the slow descent from about 300 feet, the hot air balloon hit power lines. The pilot stated that, as the balloon descended, the wind shifted, and the forward speed of the balloon was reduced. Instead of continuing past the power lines, the gondola of the balloon descended between the power lines, and the envelope of the balloon became entangled in the wires. A postimpact fire ensued, resulting in substantial damage to the envelope and gondola. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical anomalies with the balloon prior to the accident.
NTSB Probable Cause
Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Descent/approach/glide path-Not attained/maintained - C
Full Narrative
During the slow descent from approximately 300 feet, the hot air balloon hit powerlines. The pilot stated that as the balloon descended, the winds shifted and the forward speed of the balloon was reduced. Instead of continuing past the powerlines, the gondola of the balloon descended between the powerlines and the envelope of the balloon became entangled in the wires. A post impact fire ensued, resulting in substantial damage of the envelope and gondola. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical anomalies with the balloon prior to the accident.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time19:30 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireGrd
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBalloon Works Firefly 7-15
Tail NumberN9079S
Aircraft CategoryBall
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines0
Seats1
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 57 · None · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point66 F
Altimeter29.82 inHg
Observation Time23:54
Weather SourceWFAC