Incident Details
A hot air balloon was involved in an accident while performing a slow descent from an altitude of approximately 300 feet. During this descent, the balloon made contact with powerlines. The impact was followed by a post-impact fire that caused substantial damage to the balloon's envelope and gondola. The damage included extensive burns and structural deformation to both components.
Pilot Account
The pilot of the balloon provided a statement regarding the accident. According to the pilot, as the balloon descended, the wind shifted, leading to a reduction in the balloon's forward speed. This change in speed prevented the balloon from clearing the powerlines. Instead, the gondola descended between the powerline wires, and the envelope became entangled in the lines.
Mechanical Condition
The pilot also stated that there were no mechanical anomalies with the balloon prior to the accident. The balloon was functioning normally without any reported issues before the powerline strike.