What happened
On April 11, 2020, at approximately 10:10 UTC, an unregistered hot air balloon was conducting a skydiving operation near Ibitinga, São Paulo. The flight originated from a municipal road in the São Salvador district. The aircraft was carrying one crew member and three passengers.
During the flight, two skydivers successfully exited the aircraft. However, shortly after the jumps, the hot air balloon lost lift and struck the ground. While the two skydivers emerged uninjured, the accident resulted in two fatalities, involving the pilot and one passenger. The aircraft sustained light damage.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's components, including the envelope, burner assembly, basket, and propane cylinders. Technical inspections of the SMART VENT system and the burner ignition system showed they were functioning normally. No evidence of intentional tampering with the vent system was found.
Regarding the pilot's credentials, the investigation confirmed the pilot held a valid Private Pilot License for Free Balloons (PPB) and a valid Free Balloon (BLAQ) category rating, along with a valid medical certificate. However, the pilot lacked the specific endorsement required by Brazilian civil aviation regulations (RBAC 61.31) to perform personnel jumps.
Furthermore, the investigation revealed significant regulatory non-compliance regarding the aircraft itself. The balloon was not registered in the Brazilian Aeronautical Registry (RAB). Additionally, the aircraft lacked a Certificate of Airworthiness (CA), flight authorization, and the necessary permits to conduct skydiving operations.
Findings
- The pilot was qualified to operate a balloon but lacked the specific authorization for passenger jumps.
- The aircraft was unregistered and lacked essential airworthiness documentation and flight permits.
- The aircraft was not authorized for skydiving operations.
- Meteorological conditions were reported as favorable for flight.
- The specific cause for the loss of lift remains undetermined.