NTSB Factual Report

On March 24, 2018, about 0845 eastern daylight time, a Lindstrand Balloons 105A, N1517H, was substantially damaged when it collided with power lines in Wesley Chapel, Florida. The commercial pilot was not injured, and the two passengers sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The sightseeing flight was conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

The pilot reported that he was preparing to land, and as the balloon approached the landing site he saw that the area was roped-off. He then decided to land at his alternate landing site, which was an adjacent field on the backside of a shopping center.

He began a descent, saw power lines as he passed over the stores, and attempted to use the "burners" to climb, but it was too late. He knew the balloon was going to hit the powerlines, and told the passengers that there would be a hard landing and to "get down." The pilot secured the fuel at the burners and the tanks. The balloon descended straight down; the pilot heard a "pop," and felt sparks on his shoulders as the balloon hit the powerlines. The basket landed upright, and witnesses came to assist.

An examination of the balloon by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the balloon cables, throat and scoop were damaged.