Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the balloon when the wind unexpectedly increased which resulted in a collision with trees during the landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that the purpose of the flight was to take the 11 passengers on a hot-air balloon sightseeing tour. The pilot reviewed the weather forecast for the day which disclosed that wind speeds would be less than 8 mph. The morning departure occurred in calm wind conditions and the pilot maneuvered the balloon for about 30 to 40 minutes before he noticed the wind was becoming stronger. As he descended to land, he noted that the wind was reaching 15 to 20 mph. In an effort to make a quick stop, he attempted to activate the rapid deflation valve, which was slower than he expected. The balloon subsequently collided with a tree which resulted in substantial damage to the basket.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15CA044 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 17, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Wittman, Arizona
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Ultramagic N-250
- N-number
- N59EX
- Category
- Balloon
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial observation
Other records under this N-number
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.