Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control of the balloon after encountering high wind conditions and windshear during the landing, which resulted in the pilot’s ejection from the basket and serious injury.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the balloon stated reported that, during the hour-long flight, the surface winds had increased. During the landing, the pilot “vented out the air to descend” and the balloon “hit the ground hard.” Witnesses who observed the balloon’s approach to the landing field stated the balloon began a rapid descent. Subsequently, the balloon landed hard, and the basket tipped over. The pilot was ejected, resulting in serious injury.
The balloon pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA245 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 13, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Casper, Wyoming
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Kubicek Factory S R O BB26Z
- N-number
- N307CK
- Category
- Balloon
- 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.