Cameron Z-350 balloon, G-CCSA, 6 April 2012

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: Sport aviation and balloons
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 6 April 2012
• Aircraft type: Cameron Z-350 balloon
• Location: 8 nm south of Bath
• Registration: G-CCSA

Cameron Z-350 balloon, G-CCSA

Summary:

The balloon was launched from a site at Bath, with the pilot and 15 passengers on board. After about a one hour flight, the pilot descended the balloon towards a field for landing. The weather conditions were cold but fine, with a surface wind from 030°(M) at 4 kt, although the pilot thought that the conditions were becoming thermic, creating some slight gusts. On final approach, the wind changed direction just before touchdown and the balloon made contact with a tree, causing two fabric panels to be ripped. One of the passengers complained of some back pain after landing and was taken to hospital as a precaution but reportedly later discharged with only some bruising. No other injuries were reported.

Download report:

Cameron Z-350 balloon G-CCSA 08-12.pdf (221.15 kb)

Published 10 December 2014