Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain the descent rate, resulting in a hard landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The balloon was descending toward a row of trees during an approach to a field. The pilot added heat to make the balloon ascend. Once clear of the trees, the pilot opened a vent to descend and his hand became entangled in the line. The pilot freed his hand and realized that the descent rate was excessive. He maneuvered the balloon for a landing in the field; the balloon bounced, went up about 10 to 15 feet above ground level, and then landed hard. Two passengers sustained broken feet. The balloon sustained substantial damage to 31 fabric panels in the envelope as a result of contact with the burner flames during the landing sequence. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon prior to the flight that would have precluded normal operation of the balloon.
Source record
Factual narrative
The balloon was descending toward a row of trees during an approach to a field. The pilot added heat to make the balloon ascend. Once clear of the trees, the pilot opened a vent to descend and his hand became entangled in the line. The pilot freed his hand and realized that the descent rate was excessive. He maneuvered the balloon for a landing in the field; the balloon bounced, went up about 10 to 15 feet above ground level, and then landed hard. Two passengers sustained broken feet. The balloon sustained substantial damage to 31 fabric panels in the envelope as a result of contact with the burner flames during the landing sequence. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon prior to the flight that would have precluded normal operation of the balloon.