On 25 June 2023, at 0619 local time, the pilot of an amateur-built hot air balloon (DB-6R), registered G-CMFS, was taking part in a balloon competition, from Worcestershire, England. One part of the competition involved dropping a marker as close as possible to a target location. The accident occurred whilst the balloon was climbing rapidly away from this target. The balloon envelope collapsed, and the basket descended to the ground, fatally injuring the pilot.
The AAIB requested assistance and the appointment of an accredited representative from the ATSB. To facilitate this support, the ATSB appointed an accredited representative in accordance with paragraph 5.23 of the International Civil Aviation Organization Annex 13 and commenced an investigation under the Australian Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.
On 23 May 2024, the AAIB completed its investigation and released the final report into the accident. For further information in relation to the investigation of this accident, please refer to the AAIB.
Email: enquiries@aaib.gov.uk
Website: Air Accidents Investigation Branch