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Tree Branch Injures Passenger During Balloon Landing (N3592Z)

Clarkdale, AZ, US

On May 9, 1999, an Aerostar S-60A (registration N3592Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Clarkdale, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain during a high wind condition. Contributing factors were the high winds and the tree. 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

During an uneventful sightseeing flight, the balloon landed in 8-knot wind. After touchdown, the basket was dragged about 10 feet, and a tree branch penetrated through a passenger's step hole, seriously injuring a passenger's leg.

Incident Overview

A pilot and four fare-paying passengers departed on a local sightseeing flight, which proceeded without incident. The passengers received safety briefings and were wearing helmets during the landing. The landing occurred in an 8-knot wind. After touchdown, the pilot ripped out the balloon's top. The basket was subsequently dragged about 10 feet before coming to rest on terrain where vegetation covered over half of its surface.

Injury Details

During the slide, a tree branch penetrated the basket through a passenger's step hole. The branch contacted a passenger's leg, resulting in a serious injury.

Operational Context

The flight was a local sightseeing trip with fare-paying passengers. The pilot performed a high wind landing, and safety equipment such as helmets was used.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 May 1999 Aerostar S-60A accident near Clarkdale, AZ?

During an uneventful sightseeing flight, the balloon landed in 8-knot wind. After touchdown, the basket was dragged about 10 feet, and a tree branch penetrated through a passenger's step hole, seriously injuring a passenger's leg.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 May 1999 Aerostar S-60A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 May 1999 involved an Aerostar S-60A, registration N3592Z, at Clarkdale, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain during a high wind condition. Contributing factors were the high winds and the tree.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18808. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.