Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain a proper descent rate during the landing approach in a high wind condition.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was unable to arrest the balloon’s descent during a high wind landing approach, during which the balloon contacted trees. The balloon sustained substantial damage to the envelope and load tape. The pilot sustained a serious injury when he was ejected from the basket during the hard landing.
The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN24LA093 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 13, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Albany, Texas
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Balloon Works Firefly 7-15
- N-number
- N2582U
- Category
- Balloon
- Year built
- 1995
- 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.