What happened
On 15 July 2008, a Cameron Z-275 balloon, registration G-CDDC, was conducting a commercial passenger flight near Lenham, Kent. The flight, which began at Leeds Castle, was intended to fly toward the North Downs. However, due to prevailing winds, the pilot opted to launch from a different location to ensure a return toward the original destination.
During the descent, the pilot identified a suitable field for landing but noted that wind speeds had increased to approximately 12 knots. To decelerate the descent, the pilot employed a technique of flying the basket through a hedge. During this maneuver, the basket struck the hedge with significant force. While the pilot described the subsequent landing as firm and bumpy, the impact caused one passenger to shift from her instructed landing position. The basket eventually came to rest on its side after being dragged a short distance.
As a result of the impact, one passenger sustained serious injuries, specifically breaking both legs. The pilot and passengers disembarked following the landing, and the injured passenger was initially treated with cold compresses on-site before being transported to a hospital.