Investigation number
198900809
Occurrence date
Location
Nuriootpa
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Miscellaneous - Other
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Serious

The approach to land was made in light wind conditions and at an approximate rate of descent of 200 feet per minute. The landing was firm. When the basket impacted with the ground the pilot flying the balloon was thrown forward and fell onto the passenger. The passenger's leg was broken. The rate of descent was not excessive and should not have caused the occupants to be thrown about if they were correctly braced prior to touchdown. The pilot reported that he lost concentration at a critical moment and did not brace himself sufficiently for the landing.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Thunder & Colt Balloons
Model
69
Registration
VH-OLA
Serial number
588
Operation type
Ballooning
Departure point
Seppeltsfield SA
Departure time
1630
Destination
Nuriootpa SA
Damage
Nil