What happened
On 12 May 2019, a Cameron A-400 hot air balloon, registration G-VBAJ, completed a commercial passenger flight near Hargham Hall, Attlebedorough, Norfolk. The flight concluded with a gentle landing, leaving both the balloon and the basket in an upright position.
Following the touchdown, the pilot requested that four passengers exit the basket to assist the ground crew with holding the crown line to facilitate a controlled deflation. While this assistance was not strictly required for the landing, it was offered as part of the flight experience. To exit the basket, passengers were required to step over the side and use steps built into the basket wall. During this process, one passenger attempted to descend the steps but lost footing. Because the passenger was wearing a large boot, his left foot became caught in the top step as he fell, resulting in one serious injury.