What happened
On July 30, 2016, at approximately 0742 central daylight time, a Balóny Kubícek BB85Z hot air balloon, registration N2469L, crashed in a field near Lockhart, Texas. The flight, operated by Heart of Texas Hot Air Balloon Rides, had departed from Fentress Airpark in Fentress, Texas, at approximately 0658, shortly after sunrise. During the flight, the balloon struck power lines, resulting in 16 fatal injuries. The impact and a subsequent postcrash fire destroyed the aircraft.
Findings
Investigation revealed that the pilot's decision-making led to the initial launch and the continuation of flight while operating in fog and above clouds. The descent occurred near or through clouds, which reduced the pilot's ability to see and avoid obstacles. Additionally, the pilot's medical conditions and medications were found to be impairing. The investigation also noted the FAA policy that does not require a medical certificate for commercial balloon pilots.