PFLUGERVILLE, TX, USA
N1990S
CAMERON V-77
WHILE ATTEMPTING TO LAND, THE BALLOON ENCOUNTERED A SHIFT IN WIND DIRECTION AND VELOCITY. THE BASKET STRUCK THE GROUND AND THE BALLOON DRIFTED INTO A SET OF POWER LINES. THE ENVELOPE WENT OVER POWER LINES AND GONDOLA WAS ON ITS SIDE CAUSING THE BURNER UNIT TO IGNITE THE GRASS. THE ENSUING FIRE CONSUMED THE ENVELOPE.
On July 24, 1994, at 0730 central daylight time, a Cameron V-77 N1990S, was destroyed while landing near Pflugerville, Texas. The airline transport rated pilot was not injured. Weather for the 14 CFR 91 flight was visual meteorological conditions. The pilot reported that while he was attempting to land, a gust of wind caused the balloon to drift into electrical wires. The ensuing collision resulted in the gondola turning on its side. When the balloon came to rest the burner unit ignited the grass and the fire consumed the balloon. Numerous attempts to have the pilot complete the NTSB Pilot/Operator report were unsuccessful.
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL. A FACTOR WAS THE UNFAVORABLE WIND.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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