Cameron Balloons Us ZL-70 N31010 accident near Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Probable cause

The pilot’s inability to maintain clearance from a tree during the landing approach due to a gusting wind shift.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the balloon reported that he was descending the balloon to land in a field, with wind coming from the north at about 10 kts. When the balloon was about 30 ft above ground level, the wind shifted and started to come from the northwest with an approximate 15 kt gust. The balloon changed direction during the wind gust and the pilot attempted to correct by burning the balloon’s tow burners, however, the balloon impacted a tree. The balloon sustained minor damage to its basket and envelope, and the passenger sustained serious injuries.

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

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR25LA081 for the full record.