Colorado Aviation Accidents & Incidents

Learn from Colorado's accident history to fly safer in the Rockies

2310 Total Accidents 425 Fatal 816 Fatalities 1982-2026
← Back to all accidents

Pagosa Springs, Colorado

April 20, 2021 · NTSB CEN21LA210 · FIREFLY BALLOONS 2010 INC FIREFLY 12B-010 (N3016R)
Serious Injury
Note: This analysis may be based on NTSB preliminary reports, which represent an initial, incomplete investigation. Facts can change as the investigation progresses, and preliminary findings should not be assumed to be accurate or final. For older events, a final NTSB report may have been issued — always consult the NTSB Aviation Query for the authoritative record.

NTSB Narrative

The pilot’s failure to properly control the balloon during a steep approach that resulted in a hard landing and a serious passenger injury.

Case Study & Lessons Learned

Generating educational case study...

NTSB Findings

  • Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Aircraft control-Pilot
  • Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Descent rate-Not attained/maintained

Details

NTSB ReportCEN21LA210
AircraftFIREFLY BALLOONS 2010 INC FIREFLY 12B-010
RegistrationN3016R
Damage
FAR Part091
Location37.2723, -107.0869
CPA Mountain Flying Ground School
Corporate Sponsor
Lost Paddle Rafting
Lost Paddle Rafting
All Classifieds Post an Ad