What happened
On 14 April 2012, a Flamboyant AX7-75MP hot air balloon departed from Joostenberg Farm in Stellenbosch for a scheduled commercial adventure flight. The flight began without incident, with the pilot using a small helium balloon to verify wind conditions. However, during the approach to the landing site at Nooitgedacht Wine Estate, the balloon entered a rapid descent and struck overhead power lines.
The impact caused the balloon's envelope to separate from the basket and resulted in electrical arcing. The crash caused substantial damage to the aircraft and disrupted the local power supply. While the pilot sustained minor injuries, two passengers sustained serious injuries, and one passenger escaped without harm.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID examined the flight circumstances, the aircraft's condition, and the pilot's actions. Investigators reviewed video footage of the descent, which revealed that the pilot continued to operate the burner throughout the rapid descent rather than performing a "rip out" (deflating the envelope) to facilitate a controlled hard landing before hitting the lines.
Technical inspections of the ZS-HPP revealed several safety concerns. The basket was a home-built unit using low-quality straps to secure fuel tanks, and the aircraft utilized aluminium fuel tanks that are not recommended for aviation use. Furthermore, the investigation found that the balloon was grossly overloaded, as the total weight exceeded the allowable limits for the current temperature and altitude conditions. The pilot also failed to complete a required load sheet.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with power lines during a rapid descent.
- The flight was being conducted commercially without a valid operating certificate.
- The aircraft was overloaded, which hindered the pilot's ability to arrest the descent.
- Environmental factors, including a gust of wind and unstudied weather cycles, contributed to the loss of control.
- The pilot lacked the necessary experience to manage the emergency and conduct the commercial operation safely.
- The launch site was deemed unsafe due to the presence of nearby power lines.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the Director of Civil Aviation review the competency and skill standards for registered commercial hot air balloon operators, pilots, instructors, and maintenance personnel.
- A review of the licensing procedures for both pilots and commercial operators is recommended, including a requirement for annual operational reporting.