Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from powerlines after an aborted landing attempt.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the balloon reported that during the flight, the wind pattern changed, and the balloon had traveled toward a congested area. The pilot attempted to land in a clearing, however, decided to abort the landing with the application of the burners to initiate a climb. Subsequently, the pilot realized that the balloon would not clear a set of power lines ahead of their position and pulled out the top of the balloon to expedite a descent. The balloon impacted the power lines and support pole, which resulted in substantial damage to multiple basket suspension cables. The pilot reported that 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 WPR26LA079 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 10, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- La Verkin, Utah
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Kubicek Factory S R O BB26M
- N-number
- N90MN
- Category
- Balloon
- Year built
- 2025
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Flight test
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.