Three people were seriously injured when their hot air balloon struck power lines and caught on fire before crashing into an Indiana field, authorities said.
The incident occurred Sunday shortly before 7 p.m. local time in Hebron in northwestern Indiana, according to preliminary information from the Federal Aviation Administration.
The Lindstrand hot air balloon “crashed after striking power lines,” the FAA said in a statement.
A hot air balloon is seen near power lines in Hebron, Nebraska, June 3, 2024.
Debbie Wajvoda
Footage of the hot air balloon captured in flight in Hebron on Sunday appears to show the aircraft hit a power line, causing a spark.
First responders with the Lowell Fire Department located the aircraft in a field with the basket still attached to the balloon envelope and three people inside, the fire department said.
“There was evidence on the passenger basket that electrical current passed from the power lines to the basket and injured the three people in the basket,” the fire department said in a press release.
First responders requested two medical helicopters “due to the severe extent of the burn injuries,” the department said.
Two patients were transported by air to Chicago-area hospitals, while the pilot was transported to a local hospital via ambulance, authorities said.
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The hot air balloon is registered to Region Ballooning, based in Crown Point, Indiana, according to FAA records. ABC News has reached out to the company for comment.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are investigating.
The hot air balloon will be recovered from the crash site, located near an airfield, for “further examination,” the NTSB said.
“During the on-scene phase of the investigative process, the NTSB does not determine or speculate about the cause of the accident,” the agency said in a statement.
Hebron is located south of Lake Michigan near the Illinois-Indiana border, about 56 miles southeast of Chicago.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently reported that three individuals were seriously injured in a hot air balloon accident involving power lines. The incident occurred in a rural area, where the hot air balloon was attempting to land when it became entangled in power lines.
Hot air balloon accidents are relatively rare, but when they do occur, they can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. In this particular incident, the three individuals on board the hot air balloon were seriously injured and had to be transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The FAA is currently investigating the cause of the accident, but initial reports suggest that the pilot may have misjudged the landing and inadvertently drifted into the path of the power lines. It is important for pilots of hot air balloons to be aware of their surroundings and to always maintain a safe distance from power lines and other potential hazards.
Hot air ballooning is a popular recreational activity that offers breathtaking views and a unique experience of floating through the sky. However, it is important for participants to prioritize safety and to follow all necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.
In light of this recent incident, it is crucial for hot air balloon operators and pilots to review safety protocols and ensure that all passengers are properly briefed on emergency procedures. Additionally, it is important for pilots to be vigilant and to always be prepared for unexpected obstacles or challenges during flight.
The FAA will continue to investigate this accident and will work to determine the cause in order to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. In the meantime, it serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in all aviation activities, including hot air ballooning.
As more information becomes available, it is essential for all individuals involved in hot air ballooning to stay informed and to prioritize safety above all else. By taking necessary precautions and following proper procedures, accidents like this one can be avoided, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
