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Balloon Strikes Houses During Gusty Landing Attempt (N1024B)

Rio Rancho, NM, US

On October 9, 2007, a Cameron Balloons Z-105 (registration N1024B) was involved in an aviation accident near Rio Rancho, NM. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inability to maintain aircraft control due to high winds resulting in the aircraft coming in contact with two houses. 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 hot air balloon landing in a field was pushed by gusts into a house, ejecting two passengers. After lifting off, a third passenger was ejected. The balloon then struck a second house before coming to rest.

First Impact

The pilot was attempting to land a hot air balloon in a large open field. A gust of wind pushed the balloon downward and sideways toward a nearby house. In an effort to avoid a collision, the pilot activated both burners. Despite this action, the balloon struck the house's parapet wall and then the ground. The impact ejected two passengers from the basket.

Lift-off and Second Landing

The sudden loss of weight from the two ejected passengers caused the balloon to lift back into the air. The pilot then opened the emergency vent to initiate a controlled descent. The balloon struck the ground a second time, ejecting a third passenger. Throughout the incident, winds were reported to be gusting to 35 mph or greater.

Subsequent Collision

After the second ground contact, the balloon traveled across a street and struck a second house. The collision damaged the house's swamp cooler. The balloon then came to rest on its side in the yard of the second house, ending the sequence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Oct 2007 Cameron Balloons Z-105 accident near Rio Rancho, NM?

A hot air balloon landing in a field was pushed by gusts into a house, ejecting two passengers. After lifting off, a third passenger was ejected. The balloon then struck a second house before coming to rest.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Oct 2007 Cameron Balloons Z-105 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Oct 2007 involved a Cameron Balloons Z-105, registration N1024B, at Rio Rancho, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inability to maintain aircraft control due to high winds resulting in the aircraft coming in contact with two houses.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20071029X01676. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.