The pilot’s delayed decision to deflate the balloon during a static display in windy conditions, which resulted in a loss of control and impact with a building. Contributing to the accident was the proximity of the balloon from structures during a static display.
N355WC
BALONY KUBICEK SPOL SRO BB100Z
Balloon · None
2 NTSB records
for this tail number, including substantial damage. See the full record below.
Registration
Airframe
Powerplant
Live Flight Status
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Transponder & Tracking
The hex code is the aircraft's ICAO 24-bit address, broadcast by its ADS-B transponder. It is the key used to match live position reports to this registration.
NTSB Accident & Incident Record
Apr 27, 2026
Accident
Substantial Elk Grove, CA
InjuriesNone
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
NTSB WPR26LA170
Apr 14, 2019
Accident
Minor St. Helena, CA
Injuries1 serious, 2 minor
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
The balloon pilot's encounter with unforecasted wind, which resulted in his decision to land in unsuitable terrain and a subsequent hard landing. Contributing to the severity of passenger injury was the pilot’s failure to provide a proper safety briefing.
NTSB WPR19TA110