Hot Air Balloon Crash Kills 16 In Austin, Texas
STILLWATER, Minn. (WCCO) -- A day of fun turned tragic after a hot air balloon crashed, killing all 16 people on board early Saturday morning.
The crash near Austin, Texas is among the deadliest hot air balloon crashes in history, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.
The Federal Aviation Administration and other agencies are investigating but sources said on Saturday that it seems the balloon may have struck power lines and burst into flames in a field.
Hot air balloon businesses have a rich history in Minnesota, according to business owner Scott Aamodt.
"The first balloon event ever to be held in this country was held on White Bear Lake in the winter time," Aamodt said.
Aamodt cancelled his scheduled Saturday trip at his Stillwater business Aamodt's Hot Air Balloon Rides due to weather.
Aamodt said a ride in a hot air balloon could still be dangerous even when skies look peaceful.
"It is very unlike flying in Albuquerque or Phoenix or San Diego," Aamodt said of Minnesota's business. "We don't get as many flyable days but I think it's more beautiful too."
Aamodt said Minnesota weather usually allows for only 30 to 75 rides per year, whereas a calmer climate might see trips nearly every day during the year.
"Good conditions mean it has to be very light winds and no weather in the area. If we see any kind of thunderstorm activity within 50 to 75 miles it's not safe and we're not going to fly," Aamodt said.
After three decades in the business, Aamodt is used to making difficult decisions and getting some tough calls from customers in return.
"I'm brutally honest with people about ballooning in Minnesota. Sometimes you have to be very, very patient," Aamodt said. "It can sometimes take a year or more before you get your flight in."
Aamodt said no one wants to fly more than him since he does not make money when he does not fly, but nothing is worth compromising anyone's safety.
Aamodt said many people do not realize the hot air balloons are actual aircrafts and those who operate the balloons have a license through the FAA.
Federal investigators are still looking into what led a hot air balloon carrying 16 people to crash in Austin Saturday morning.
Officers found the balloon basket on fire on the ground.
While flying in a hot air balloon is always a delicate situation, Aamodt hopes people will still try.
"I've never had anybody walk away saying it wasn't worth the wait due to weather," Aamodt said.
Investigators are looking at possible problems like mechanical issues, weather and pilot error to determine the cause of the crash.
Government records show the NTSB urged the FAA to have greater oversight over tour companies two years ago.
The FAA rejected the recommendations.
