Plane crash map Locate crash sites, wreckage and more

N4062M accident description

California map... California list
Crash location 38.368056°N, 122.288333°W
Nearest city Napa, CA
38.297137°N, 122.285529°W
4.9 miles away
Tail number N4062M
Accident date 11 Nov 2009
Aircraft type Cameron Balloons Us A-250
Additional details: None

NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the balloon reported that after three unsuccessful landing attempts during the sightseeing flight, he located a grassy 2-3 acre field and positioned the balloon for landing. He stated that the approach was from the northwest at 500-feet and the balloon was traveling about 6 knots. The pilot anticipated winds near the surface to be from the east, however, after descending to 250-feet the balloon continued in a southerly direction, near trees. The pilot executed a controlled descent over a tree and landed firmly. The basket bounced once and came to rest upright with the balloon's envelope against a tree. After the landing, one of the passengers complained of ankle pain and was transported to a hospital. A medical evaluation revealed that the passenger's ankle was fractured. The pilot reported that a passenger landing briefing was completed prior to landing.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's encounter with variable winds which resulted in a hard landing and passenger injury.

© 2009-2020 Lee C. Baker / Crosswind Software, LLC. For informational purposes only.