What happened
On 24 September 2018, a CAMERON - Z3SB hot air balloon, registered F-HMIG, was conducting a commercial flight near Estaires, France. The flight, operated by Ballons Migrateurs, departed from Boeschèpe mill with the pilot and sixteen passengers on board.
During the approach to the landing site, the pilot maintained a high approach to clear local obstacles, flying at an estimated average speed of 10 knots. Prior to touchdown, the pilot reiterated landing instructions to the passengers. Upon landing, the basket experienced a bounce before settling in an upright position. Following disembarkation, one passenger reported knee pain and was subsequently diagnosed with a knee fracture requiring surgery.
The investigation
The BEA examined the pilot's credentials, meteorological conditions, and the circumstances surrounding the passenger's injury. The investigation confirmed that the pilot, an experienced instructor with over 1,300 ascents, had access to all necessary weather information, which indicated favorable flying conditions with light northerly winds and good visibility.
Investigators also reviewed the passenger's physical state and attire. It was noted that the passenger was wearing appropriate footwear for the activity. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the passenger had a pre-existing lower limb weakness that had not been disclosed to the pilot prior to the flight.