What happened
While the provided source material focuses on the resulting safety recommendations, the investigation addressed an incident involving a hot air balloon during the inflation process. During the preparation phase, as the balloon was being filled with hot air, safety concerns arose regarding the management of the anchor line and the positioning of passengers near the envelope.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational procedures used during the pre-flight phase of hot air ballooning. The Dutch Safety Board examined the manufacturer's flight manual and the protocols followed by ballooning organizations. The inquiry specifically looked into how the anchor line is utilized and the potential risks posed to passengers while the balloon is being inflated.
Findings
The investigation identified critical safety gaps regarding the use of the anchor line and passenger safety during inflation. Key findings include a lack of clarity in the manufacturer's flight manual concerning the proper use of the anchor line and the necessity of ensuring its strength is maintained at all times. Furthermore, the investigation found that passengers may be exposed to unnecessary danger during the period when the balloon is being filled with hot air.
Safety action
Following the findings, several recommendations have been issued to prevent future occurrences:
- Cameron Balloons is advised to revise its flight manual to provide clearer instructions on anchor line usage, ensure the line's strength is guaranteed, and protect passengers during the inflation process.
- Dutch ballooning organizations, including the Royal Netherlands Aeronautical Association (KNvL) Ballooning Division and Professional Balloonists Netherlands, are advised to develop formal guidelines. These guidelines should cover the proper use and maintenance of anchor lines, as well as defining the specific roles and safety positions of passengers during pre-flight preparations.