On May 2, 1990, a Thunder And Colt AX9-140 (registration N9112R) was involved in an aviation accident near Napa, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land in increasing wind conditions, which resulted in a hard landing with a subsequent bounce. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A balloon pilot terminated a flight as surface winds increased from under 3 mph to between 8 and 12 mph, resulting in a hard landing with a significant bounce upon touchdown.
What happened
The pilot reported that the flight began under calm conditions, with local surface winds not exceeding 3 mph. As the flight progressed, the pilot observed a steady increase in wind speed and elected to terminate the flight early.
When the balloon touched down, the surface wind had increased to between 8 and 12 mph. The landing was hard, causing the balloon to bounce 30 to 40 feet into the air before contacting the ground again with significant force.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's report of changing weather conditions and the resulting impact forces during the landing phase. No mechanical failure or structural damage to the balloon envelope was reported by the pilot.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land in increasing wind conditions, which resulted in a hard landing with a subsequent bounce.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 May 1990 Thunder And Colt AX9-140 accident near Napa, CA?
A balloon pilot terminated a flight as surface winds increased from under 3 mph to between 8 and 12 mph, resulting in a hard landing with a significant bounce upon touchdown.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 May 1990 Thunder And Colt AX9-140 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 May 1990 involved a Thunder And Colt AX9-140, registration N9112R, at Napa, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to land in increasing wind conditions, which resulted in a hard landing with a subsequent bounce.
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