Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper brace during landing which resulted in a serious injury during the landing sequence.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he conducted a steep approach to a field with the intention of landing in between two obstacles. The balloon cleared the first obstacle with a descent rate of 250 ft per minute. The basket touched down on its short side, near the corner. The pilot was thrown forward and down as he pulled the red line; his foot caught on the basket wall then twisted. The balloon bounced once or twice before it came to rest on its side. The pilot reported that there were no anomalies with the balloon that would have precluded normal operations. The balloon sustained minor damage and the passengers were not injured; however, the pilot sustained a serious ankle injury.