Synopsis
On 22 July 2013, a hot air balloon (Llopis Balloons MA30, registration F-HMCL) took off from Gorcy, France at approximately 19:45 local time for a non-revenue local flight with the pilot and three passengers. During the flight, weather conditions worsened and wind speed increased. The balloon drifted towards Luxembourg, and the pilot decided to land near the town of Limpach. The landing was hard, with the basket striking the ground twice before coming to rest about 150 metres further on.
Flight History
The pilot planned a local balloon flight on the afternoon of 22 July. He first checked weather forecasts around 09:00 using an aeronautical website and an agricultural website. Around 11:30, he checked only the agricultural site. Before departing for the launch site at Gorcy, around 18:50, he checked both sites again, including METAR and TAF for Luxembourg airport (ELLX). At the launch site, he made a final check via smartphone on the agricultural site; the aeronautical site was inaccessible. The pilot and three passengers took off at about 19:45. The sky was clear with light wind and no visible thunderstorm activity. The pilot initially planned to land in the Mexy area. Shortly after takeoff, the wind pushed the balloon towards Cosnes-et-Romain and Longwy. Near Saint-Charles, the pilot heard thunder and noted deteriorating weather over Longuyon. He received a radio call from the recovery vehicle.
Weather Conditions
Weather forecasts consulted by the pilot indicated favourable conditions. However, during the flight, conditions deteriorated significantly. Wind increased and a thunderstorm developed. The balloon was carried towards Luxembourg. Meteorological reports from Luxembourg airport (ELLX) and other sources were documented in the investigation.
Landing Sequence
The pilot decided to land near Limpach. During the landing attempt, the basket hit the ground twice before sliding to a stop approximately 150 metres from the initial impact point.
Occupant Injuries and Aircraft Damage
The pilot and two passengers sustained minor injuries. The third passenger suffered serious injuries and died on 4 September 2013 at the hospital. The balloon sustained damage, details of which were not specified in the summary.
Conclusions
The investigation did not issue any safety recommendations.