Probable cause
The pilot’s inability to maintain obstacle clearance after the balloon’s encounter with a downdraft, which resulted in a collision with power lines.
NTSB analysis
During cruise flight, the balloon encountered a sudden downdraft. The pilot arrested the descent to level flight, but not in time to prevent the bottom of the basket from contacting nearby power lines. The pilot subsequently landed the balloon without further incident. One passenger sustained serious injuries.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR19LA104 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 1, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Yountville, California
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cameron A-400
- N-number
- N6954Y
- Category
- Balloon
- Year built
- 2017
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
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.