Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from powerlines.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was participating in a balloon event that consisted of dropping markers on targets at various locations. While approaching the final target, he crossed some trees about 200 ft above ground level (agl) in a descent. After crossing the trees, when the balloon was about 20 ft agl, he heard someone announce “powerline” over his crew radio and saw approaching powerlines above his line of sight. He immediately pulled his deflation line and shut off the fuel tanks. The balloon subsequently contacted the powerlines, which resulted in electrical arcing and the basket impacted the ground. The balloon sustained substantial damage to the envelope and the basket.
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA365 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 4, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Indianola, Iowa
- Nearest airport
- N/A
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Ultramagic Sa M56C
- N-number
- N801UM
- Category
- Balloon
- Year built
- 2019
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.