Incident Overview
On October 10, 2018, at approximately 0943 mountain daylight time, a Balloon Works Firefly 7-15 balloon (registration N7252H) experienced a hard landing in a field about 4 miles west of Placitas, New Mexico. The balloon was operated by the pilot under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight had departed the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico, around 0851, with the intended landing area near the accident site.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, during descent and maneuvering to check wind conditions for landing, the balloon inadvertently collided with a hill at a higher elevation than expected. The pilot reported the balloon's airspeed at impact was between 15 to 20 mph. The impact was firm, resulting in both passengers sustaining a broken ankle. The pilot subsequently landed the balloon without further incident.
Weather and Balloon Condition
The forecast wind at Albuquerque, located 17 nautical miles from the accident site, was 4 knots, while the pilot reported winds of 6 to 8 knots at the accident location. The pilot reported no mechanical failure or malfunction with the balloon that would have precluded normal operation.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot was not injured. The two passengers sustained serious injuries (broken ankles). The balloon itself was not damaged.
Post-Incident
The balloon was registered to and operated by the pilot. No further information about the passengers or medical outcomes was provided in the source.