Summary
The cause of the accident was an in-flight activation of the rapid deflation system. A possible explanation is that the activation occurred when, following an encounter with a 'willy willy', spinning of the envelope and basket resulted in the chimney control line entangling with the twisting basket and burner suspension lines.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 197501369 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 22/11/1975 |
| Location | near Wagga Wagga |
| Report release date | 26/01/1977 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | Fatal |