Probable cause
The separation of the inflation tank gas line due to an improperly positioned valve o-ring. Contributing to the accident was the use of an unapproved inflation tank.
NTSB analysis
A witness, who boarded the balloon for a sightseeing flight, reported that the pilot bent over and contacted a gas line with his arm. The line connection separated at the inflation tank, and gas sprayed upward and ignited. The pilot received second-degree burns on his hands and arms. Three passengers and one ground crewmember received minor injuries. A postaccident examination revealed that a rubber o-ring on the inflation tank valve was partially exposed and out of its normal position. The examination revealed that there was no approval documentation for the installation of the inflation tank.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11LA469 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 20, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lewiston, Maine
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 3
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Lindstrand Balloons 180A
- N-number
- N75213
- Category
- Balloon
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Other work use
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.