Summary
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.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198900809 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 14/05/1989 |
| Location | Nuriootpa |
| Report release date | 24/08/1989 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Miscellaneous - Other |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | Serious |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Thunder & Colt Balloons |
|---|---|
| Model | 69 |
| Registration | VH-OLA |
| Serial number | 588 |
| Operation type | Ballooning |
| Departure point | Seppeltsfield SA |
| Destination | Nuriootpa SA |
| Damage | Nil |