Balloon crash with power lines to be investigated
ECFRSInvestigators are looking at how a hot air balloon came into contact with electricity lines after landing.
A man was taken to hospital and 10 others were assessed at the scene after the pilot raised the alarm in Earls Colne, Essex, on Thursday evening.
Operator Virgin Balloon Flights said the aircraft's envelope - the large, airtight, balloon-shaped bag where the hot air goes - "came to rest upon an overhead power line" during its deflation process.
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said it was investigating after receiving a report about the collision in Newhouse Road.
Fire crews delivered first aid, cooled the balloon's cylinders and worked with UK Power Networks to make the area safe.
Electricity remained offline for 10 hours as workers repaired the damaged line from 19:00 BST.
A Virgin spokesman said the balloon initially "landed without issue".
"During the deflation process, the balloon envelope came to rest upon an overhead power line," they added.
"The pilot responded swiftly and with the utmost care, ordering a prompt disembarkation of the basket to ensure passenger safety."
Virgin has been cooperating with the AAIB as part of its safety review, with affected passengers offered support.
The aircraft was retrieved from the field later on Thursday evening.
Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.