Primary finding
Probable cause
The passenger’s failure to maintain a proper landing position and handhold during the landing sequence, which resulted in a serious injury.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that after he instructed the passengers on the landing procedures, positions, and handholds in the basket of the hot air balloon, they completed about a 1-hour flight without any anomalies. Prior to a normal landing, the passengers were once again instructed on the landing procedures. During landing, shortly after touchdown, the balloon slid to a stop and a passenger was unable to maintain her instructed position and handhold. Subsequently, the passenger sustained a serious injury.