Weather event involving multiple tethered balloons, about 6.5 km north-north-west of Wangaratta Airport, Victoria, on 11 April 2026

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a weather event involving a balloon display of multiple tethered balloons at Wangaratta Racecourse, Victoria, on 11 April 2026.

During a static balloon display, multiple tethered balloons encountered a sudden change of wind conditions.

One of the tether ropes for an Amateur-built GUS-69, registered VH-XUP, failed and the balloon became airborne before colliding with terrain resulting in injuries to a person on the ground.

The tether rope on a Kavanagh Balloons D-77, registered VH-CZX, was placed under extreme tension and the basket became briefly airborne before landing hard, resulting in injuries to an additional person on the ground.

The ATSB has commenced the examination and analysis of the initial evidence collected. To date, the ATSB investigation has included interviewing witnesses and involved parties, reviewing recorded data, and the collection of other relevant information. The continuing investigation will include examination of operational documentation and components from the site.

A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.