What happened
On July 16, 2022, a Kubicek BB34Z hot air balloon, registration TC-BOF, operated by Maccan Balonculuk Havacılık Tur. Tic. Ltd. Şti., was conducting a training flight near the Paşabağ region in Nevşehir. After approximately one hour of flight, the pilot attempted to land at the Küçük Aktepe area. During the landing phase, the pilot failed to identify overhead power lines. Simultaneously, the pilot burner extinguished, and while attempting to relight it, the envelope made contact with the energy lines. The impact pushed the balloon in an unintended direction. The pilot successfully relit the burner, regained altitude, and notified the ground crew of the emergency before completing the landing safely. There were no fatalities or injuries.
The investigation
The UEİM investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's credentials, and the operational procedures of the operator. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance was up to date, with all airworthiness directives and service bulletins applied. The pilot held a valid Group A license and medical certificate, and the aircraft's weight and balance were within limits. However, the investigation scrutinized the lack of specific training regarding local hazards and the absence of formal procedures for managing training flights within the company.