Arbc Inc Dba Lindstrand 260A N605KD accident near Custer, South Dakota

Probable cause

The balloon landing in increased wind, which resulted in a hard landing and the serious injury of a passenger.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that while aligning the balloon for the landing, he became aware of increasing wind speed. He briefed the passengers for a slightly faster landing and continued the approach. The pilot stated that he made the approach to the field at 6 knots and the ground crew were able to assist in slowing down the balloon during the landing. The basket briefly touched down and bounced twice before coming to rest. During the landing a passenger sustained a serious injury. The pilot stated that the injury was a result of another passenger crushing her against the wicker partition.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN24LA369 for the full record.