Casualties unknown

1993-01-24: Eagle Aircraft Co. C-7 (N7000J) — Myron Farnham — San Juan Bautis, CA

San Juan Bautis, CA, US

On January 24, 1993, an Eagle Aircraft Co. C-7 (registration N7000J) operated by Myron Farnham was involved in an aviation accident near San Juan Bautis, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE INFLIGHT PLANNING AND THE UNFAVORABLE WINDS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A sightseeing balloon carrying a pilot and two passengers experienced multiple landing attempts in gusty winds, resulting in passenger falls and dragging after collisions.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that he and two passengers lifted off at 0800 hours for a sightseeing flight. Winds were calm at departure but increased about an hour later when the pilot attempted to land. Due to flooded areas, obstructions, and 'brisk' ground winds, the pilot aborted several landing attempts.

Landing Attempts

The pilot located a clear, open, and dry landing area. On the first landing attempt, the basket tipped, causing one passenger to fall partially out. The pilot and the other passenger pulled the passenger back into the basket. The balloon then lifted over a fence, collided with the ground, and tipped again. The two passengers fell out of the basket and were dragged by the balloon until it stopped.

Wind Conditions

The pilot reported winds of 10 miles per hour, gusting to 15 miles per hour, during the landing attempts.

No Cited Causes

The report does not specify a probable cause for the event.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11724. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.