Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a power line during an approach.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during an approach to his landing area, he observed a power line in his flight path. He attempted to stop the balloon’s descent, but the basket still collided with the power line. The balloon sustained substantial damage to a suspension cable that severed from the collision. The pilot reported that that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.