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Balloon Makes Hard Landing During Hare and Hound Flight After Fuel Pressure Drop (N9033H)

Parker, AZ, US

On March 1, 1997, a Balloon Works AX-8B (registration N9033H) operated by Gary B. Eaton was involved in an aviation accident near Parker, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate in-flight planning, which resulted in an excessive descent and subsequent hard landing, due to a drop in fuel pressure along with shifting winds at low altitude. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A balloon pilot experienced a fuel pressure drop about 15 minutes into a hare and hound flight. Despite switching tanks, the balloon descended and landed hard on flat terrain. Low-level wind shear was reported in the area.

Event Details

Approximately 15 minutes into a hare and hound flight, the pilot observed a decrease in fuel pressure while operating at a low altitude. In response, the pilot switched fuel tanks, but the balloon had already begun to descend.

Pilot Actions

The pilot attempted to arrest the descent by using the tank believed to be in good condition. However, the balloon continued to lose altitude and subsequently landed hard on flat terrain before the descent could be stopped.

Environmental Conditions

At the time of the incident, the pilot and other pilots in the area reported the presence of low-level wind shear. No mechanical malfunction was reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Mar 1997 Balloon Works AX-8B accident near Parker, AZ?

A balloon pilot experienced a fuel pressure drop about 15 minutes into a hare and hound flight. Despite switching tanks, the balloon descended and landed hard on flat terrain. Low-level wind shear was reported in the area.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Mar 1997 involved a Balloon Works AX-8B, registration N9033H, operated by Gary B. Eaton, at Parker, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate in-flight planning, which resulted in an excessive descent and subsequent hard landing, due to a drop in fuel pressure along with shifting winds at low altitude.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07572. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.