Incident Overview
A hot air balloon taking off from an airport as part of a rally experienced a false lift condition shortly after departure. According to the pilot, the balloon had reached an altitude of approximately 150 to 200 feet above ground level when the event occurred. While checking flight instruments, the balloon encountered a false lift and subsequently settled on top of the airport's rotating beacon tower. The impact tore open the balloon envelope, causing it to deflate, and the basket came to rest on the ground.
Occupant Status
The pilot and the two passengers on board were able to exit the basket without any reported injuries. All three individuals left the scene unharmed.
Damage Assessment
A postaccident examination of the balloon revealed substantial damage to the upper one-third of the envelope's fabric and load tapes. No other anomalies or preexisting conditions were found that would have precluded normal operation of the balloon.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the incident, weather conditions in the area were reported as winds from the west at 6 knots, scattered clouds at 4,700 feet, and visibility of 10 statute miles.