Safety issue

Safety issue description

Picture This Ballooning did not have any procedures for conducting vehicle-assisted deflation.

Issue number AO-2019-014-SI-02
Issue owner Picture This Ballooning
Transport function Aviation: Other
Issue status Closed – Adequately addressed
Date issue released 29/06/2020
Issue status justification

The ATSB is satisfied that these procedures should significantly reduce the likelihood of basket tipping and personnel injury when conducting a vehicle‑assisted deflation.

Safety action

Action type Proactive action
Action number AO-2019-014-NSA-011
Organisation Picture This Ballooning
Action date 29/06/2020
Action description

Picture This Ballooning developed a new procedure for deflation. This included the steps:

Clear radio communication is to be established between the PIC and the crew (Crew 1) driving the tow over vehicle.

Crew 2 shall be radio equipped and locate themself adjacent to the basket where a) they can maintain verbal contact with the PIC and b) maintain visual contact with the tow over vehicle. Crew 2 are to act as communication backup between PIC and Crew 1 if required.

PIC to instruct passengers to resume their landing positions in case the basket inadvertently gets pulled over onto its side.

Action status Closed