What happened
Following a sightseeing flight over Hull, Quebec, an Aerostar RX-7 balloon landed in a field near Leitrim Road in Gloucester, Ontario. After the initial touchdown, the pilot and ground crew moved the balloon closer to the road to facilitate recovery. During the deflation process, a sudden gust of wind lifted the balloon off the ground. As the aircraft drifted toward nearby electrical power lines, a ground crew member fell from a height of 10 to 15 feet.
In an attempt to clear the wires, the pilot activated the burners to gain altitude. However, the balloon struck the power lines, triggering a massive electrical arc. The resulting fire caused the basket to ignite and the lift cables to burn away. The envelope eventually drifted and settled on a horizontal antenna. The accident resulted in one fatality and two serious burn injuries among the occupants, while a ground crew member sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the weather conditions at the time of the accident. Weather observations indicated that while the flight had been largely favorable, gusty winds and rain showers were developing in the area. The investigation confirmed that the balloon's weight was well within its maximum allowable limits during both takeoff and the final ground maneuvers.
Technical analysis of the Aerostar RX-7 revealed no mechanical anomalies in the balloon system itself. The investigation found that the electrical arc was caused by the balloon's movement pulling a lower conductor into a top-mounted conductor on the power pole. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the materials used in the balloon's construction, such as the envelope and skirt, were not subject to specific flammability standards, which contributed to the rapid destruction of the aircraft.
Findings
- The final landing position was situated too close to the power lines, leaving the pilot with insufficient time to react to the wind gust.
- The balloon struck electrical power lines, causing an electrical arc and fire.
- The pilot attempted to climb over the wires using the burners instead of performing an immediate landing via venting, which deviated from the flight manual procedures.
- The proximity of the power lines was a significant risk that the pilot likely failed to adequately consider due to the routine nature of moving the balloon closer to the road.
- The lack of helmets for the occupants increased the risk of injury during the emergency.