# Raven S55A - Type: Aircraft model (FAA registry) - Registry code: 7480402 - Manufacturer (registry): RAVEN - Model: S55A - Aircraft type: Balloon - Category: Balloon - Engines: None - Seats: 1 - Weight class: Up to 12,499 lb - Cruise speed: 60 mph - Certification: Type certificated - Data sheet: [TCDS A15CE](https://openairdocs.org/tcds/A15CE) (OpenAirDocs) - Holder: Balloonacy LLC - Registered aircraft: 57 - Page: https://openairdocs.org/model/raven-s55a Model codes come from the FAA registry's reference file. ADs are matched to them by model name and maker. ## ADs that may apply (OpenAirDocs) Matched to this model by model name and maker. Each AD's applicability may narrow it by serial number, part number or equipment. - [AD 2013-03-10](https://openairdocs.org/ad/2013-03-10): Hardware · Aeronaut Instruction Research Skysailor 105, Skysailor 90, 110C and 439 more. Effective Mar 19, 2013 - [AD 93-16-13](https://openairdocs.org/ad/93-16-13): Fuel Hose · Aerostar International 110P, 78C, 90C and 20 more. Effective Oct 15, 1993 - [AD 90-25-09](https://openairdocs.org/ad/90-25-09): Suspension Cables · Aerostar International RX-6, RX-7, RX-8 and 8 more. Effective Jan 14, 1991 - [AD 86-10-11 R1](https://openairdocs.org/ad/86-10-11-R1): Fuel Supply Hose Assemblies · Aerostar International RX-6, RX-7, S-40A and 6 more. Effective Jul 10, 1986 - [AD 81-21-02 R1](https://openairdocs.org/ad/81-21-02-R1): Hook And Pile Fastener Tape · Aerostar International RX-6, RX-7, S-40A and 5 more. Effective Mar 8, 1984 - [AD 80-01-03](https://openairdocs.org/ad/80-01-03): Parachute Top Release · Aerostar International S-50A, S-55A and S-60A. Effective Jan 7, 1980 - [AD 75-19-04](https://openairdocs.org/ad/75-19-04): Valve System · Aerostar International RX-6, S-40A, S-50A and 2 more. Effective Sep 17, 1975 ## Information bulletins (advisory) (1) - [SAIB CE-11-44](https://openairdocs.org/saib/CE-11-44): Fuel: Cylinder Strap Installation. Issued Jul 13, 2011 ## Registered aircraft (57, first 50) - [N1080R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1080R): [Balloon Quest Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BALLOON%20QUEST%20INC), [Fenton, MI](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MI/Fenton), built 1976, S/N S55A-270 - [N1083R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1083R): [English Douglas E](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/ENGLISH%20DOUGLAS%20E), [Sand Springs, OK](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/OK/Sand%20Springs), S/N S55A-273 - [N1105R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1105R): [Brookside Ballooning LLC](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BROOKSIDE%20BALLOONING%20LLC), [Pennington, NJ](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NJ/Pennington), built 1976, S/N S55A-297 - [N1129R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1129R): [Roessing G A](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/ROESSING%20G%20A), [Gary, IN](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/IN/Gary), built 1976, S/N S55A-302 - [N1161R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1161R): [Mcclusky Curtis G](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/MCCLUSKY%20CURTIS%20G), [Fair Oaks, CA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CA/Fair%20Oaks), built 1977, S/N S55A-322 - [N1162R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1162R): [Griffin Nancy O](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/GRIFFIN%20NANCY%20O), [Fort Collins, CO](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CO/Fort%20Collins), built 1977, S/N S55A-324 - [N1239R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1239R): [Kudlek Thomas M](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/KUDLEK%20THOMAS%20M), [Pflugerville, TX](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/TX/Pflugerville), S/N S55A-367 - [N127LZ](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N127LZ): [Fabian Gary G](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/FABIAN%20GARY%20G), [Kingsland, TX](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/TX/Kingsland), built 1981, S/N S55A-753 - [N1310R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N1310R): [Franks Megan E](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/FRANKS%20MEGAN%20E), [Temecula, CA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CA/Temecula), built 1978, S/N S55A-392 - [N21KS](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N21KS): [Air Ventures Balloon Rides Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/AIR%20VENTURES%20BALLOON%20RIDES%20INC), [Chester Springs, PA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/PA/Chester%20Springs), built 1974, S/N S55A-213 - [N25QL](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N25QL): [Hunterdon Ballooning Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/HUNTERDON%20BALLOONING%20INC), [Lebanon, NJ](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NJ/Lebanon), built 1983, S/N S55A-1017 - [N27882](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N27882): [Knutson-Smisek Edward A](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/KNUTSON-SMISEK%20EDWARD%20A), [Elysian, MN](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MN/Elysian), built 1985, S/N S55A-1081 - [N27CR](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N27CR): [Brown Charles S Jr](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BROWN%20CHARLES%20S%20JR), [Mount Washington, KY](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/KY/Mount%20Washington), S/N S55A-1086 - [N27TM](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N27TM): [Perkins Michael D](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/PERKINS%20MICHAEL%20D), [Las Vegas, NV](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NV/Las%20Vegas), S/N S55A-1078 - [N2804U](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N2804U): [H I Flight Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/H%20I%20FLIGHT%20INC), [Lexington, KY](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/KY/Lexington), S/N S55A-1089 - [N2806D](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N2806D): [Vogt Gerald J](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/VOGT%20GERALD%20J), [Erie, PA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/PA/Erie), S/N S55A-1094 - [N28071](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N28071): [Korn Bruce](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/KORN%20BRUCE), [Mindoro, WI](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/WI/Mindoro), S/N S55A-1098 - [N2808C](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N2808C): [Bush Stewart D](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BUSH%20STEWART%20D), [Rio Rancho, NM](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NM/Rio%20Rancho), S/N S55A-1100 - [N2810D](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N2810D): [Irvin Ronald L](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/IRVIN%20RONALD%20L), [Derby, KS](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/KS/Derby), S/N S55A-1103 - [N3009R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N3009R): [Wagoner David F Jr](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/WAGONER%20DAVID%20F%20JR), [Pasadena, MD](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MD/Pasadena), built 1978, S/N S55A-436 - [N3015R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N3015R): [Dicocco Anthony Jr](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/DICOCCO%20ANTHONY%20JR), [Pennington, NJ](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NJ/Pennington), built 1978, S/N S55A-438 - [N4007R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4007R): [Mcdermitt Michael G](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/MCDERMITT%20MICHAEL%20G), [Phoenix, AZ](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/AZ/Phoenix), built 1981, S/N S55A-822 - [N4024G](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4024G): [Griffin Daniel J](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/GRIFFIN%20DANIEL%20J), [Ft Collins, CO](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CO/Ft%20Collins), built 1981, S/N S55A-838 - [N4026L](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4026L): [Johnson Meridian S N](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/JOHNSON%20MERIDIAN%20S%20N), [Santa Fe, NM](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NM/Santa%20Fe), built 1981, S/N S55A-841 - [N4042S](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4042S): [Kimmich Russ S](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/KIMMICH%20RUSS%20S), [Coronado, CA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CA/Coronado), built 1981, S/N S55A-852 - [N41000](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N41000): [Horton Eric D](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/HORTON%20ERIC%20D), [Fenton, MI](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MI/Fenton), S/N S55A-1000 - [N4183G](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4183G): [Balloon Quest Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BALLOON%20QUEST%20INC), [Fenton, MI](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MI/Fenton), built 1982, S/N S55A-881 - [N41876](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N41876): [Reichhart Richard B](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/REICHHART%20RICHARD%20B), [Honeoyefalls, NY](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NY/Honeoyefalls), built 1982, S/N S55A-884 - [N4192M](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4192M): [Whelan Farms Airport LLC](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/WHELAN%20FARMS%20AIRPORT%20LLC), [Bethlehem, CT](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CT/Bethlehem), built 1982, S/N S55A-893 - [N4194K](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4194K): [Zuniga George](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/ZUNIGA%20GEORGE), [House Springs, MO](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MO/House%20Springs), S/N S55A-913 - [N4195C](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4195C): [Garcia Jerry W](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/GARCIA%20JERRY%20W), [Albuquerque, NM](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NM/Albuquerque), built 1982, S/N S55A924 - [N4196B](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4196B): [Costello Paul E](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/COSTELLO%20PAUL%20E), [Topeka, KS](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/KS/Topeka), built 1982, S/N S55A-931 - [N4224U](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4224U): [Barber Russell](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BARBER%20RUSSELL), [Hudson, NY](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NY/Hudson), built 1984, S/N S55A-1034 - [N4226F](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4226F): [Boyd Gary G](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BOYD%20GARY%20G), [Albuquerque, NM](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NM/Albuquerque), S/N S55A-1035 - [N42702](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N42702): [Digiovanni Ronald](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/DIGIOVANNI%20RONALD), [Milford, NJ](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NJ/Milford), built 1983, S/N S55A-968 - [N4271R](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4271R): [Gwin Corey](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/GWIN%20COREY), [Hot Springs, SD](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/SD/Hot%20Springs), built 1983, S/N S55A-971 - [N42720](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N42720): [Elliott Thomas J III](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/ELLIOTT%20THOMAS%20J%20III), [Lafayette, CA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CA/Lafayette), built 1977, S/N S-55A321 - [N4274C](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4274C): [Wiederkehr Balloons International](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/WIEDERKEHR%20BALLOONS%20INTERNATIONAL), [Hugo, MN](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MN/Hugo), built 1983, S/N S55A-969 - [N4274D](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4274D): [Bechtold Larry E](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BECHTOLD%20LARRY%20E), [Apple Valley, CA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CA/Apple%20Valley), built 1984, S/N S55A-1038 - [N4401Y](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N4401Y): [Majestic Adventures Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/MAJESTIC%20ADVENTURES%20INC), [South Lyon, MI](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MI/South%20Lyon), built 1984, S/N S55A-1070 - [N51548](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N51548): [Air Albert Lea](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/AIR%20ALBERT%20LEA), [Albert Lea, MN](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MN/Albert%20Lea), built 1973, S/N S55A-150 - [N55611](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N55611): [Marti Roy W](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/MARTI%20ROY%20W), [Naples, FL](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/FL/Naples), built 1979, S/N S55A-537 - [N5562K](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N5562K): [Minnetonka Balloon Co Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/MINNETONKA%20BALLOON%20CO%20INC), [Chanhassen, MN](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/MN/Chanhassen), built 1979, S/N S55A-539 - [N5563L](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N5563L): [Arman Marcelo A](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/ARMAN%20MARCELO%20A), [San Diego, CA](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CA/San%20Diego), S/N S55A-554 - [N5572A](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N5572A): [Jd Adventures LLC](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/JD%20ADVENTURES%20LLC), [Piscataway, NJ](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NJ/Piscataway), built 1979, S/N S55A-559 - [N5707D](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N5707D): [Sproul Keith A](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/SPROUL%20KEITH%20A), [North Brunswick, NJ](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NJ/North%20Brunswick), built 1980, S/N S55A-654 - [N5716N](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N5716N): [Bauer William S](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/BAUER%20WILLIAM%20S), [Ona, WV](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/WV/Ona), built 1980, S/N S55A-703 - [N5717H](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N5717H): [Aero Electric Inc](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/AERO%20ELECTRIC%20INC), [Boulder City, NV](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/NV/Boulder%20City), built 1980, S/N S55A-707 - [N5724A](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N5724A): [Snow Richard H](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/SNOW%20RICHARD%20H), [Deer Trail, CO](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/CO/Deer%20Trail), built 1981, S/N S55A-741 - [N65AB](https://openairdocs.org/aircraft/N65AB): [Gallant Michael T](https://openairdocs.org/faa-owner/GALLANT%20MICHAEL%20T), [Columbus, IN](https://openairdocs.org/faa-place/IN/Columbus), built 1983, S/N S55A-1023 All 57: https://openairdocs.org/model/raven-s55a/aircraft.md ## NTSB investigations (42) From the NTSB's public API. Aircraft are matched to registry aircraft by N-number and event date, checked against the reported serial number, make and model; the registry's history has gaps, so older matches can be wrong. Compare the reported make and model. - [NTSB CEN13WA492](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/CEN13WA492), Aug 11, 2013: Aerostar International S-55A (N25QL), Mont-St-Grégoire, Canada, no damage, 1 fatal - [NTSB DEN01LA092](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN01LA092), Apr 28, 2001: Raven S55A (N40555), Albuquerque, NM, substantial damage. Probable cause: the pilot's failure to maintain a visual lookout during approach. A contributing factor was the power lines. - [NTSB CHI00LA270](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/CHI00LA270), Aug 25, 2000: Raven AS-55A (N1073R), Lincoln, IL, substantial damage. Probable cause: The pilot failed to maintain clearance with the power lines. Factors associated with the accident were the pilot's attention was diverted and the power lines which the balloon contacted. - [NTSB FTW96LA292](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/FTW96LA292), Jul 5, 1996: Raven S55A (N4273Y), Gunnison, CO, no damage. Probable cause: The pilot's improper planning/decision. The weather condition (sudden high wind) was a related factor. - [NTSB FTW93LA010](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/FTW93LA010), Oct 8, 1992: Raven S55A (N57115), Albuquerque, NM, no damage. Probable cause: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN VISUAL LOOKOUT. - [NTSB DEN91LA003](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN91LA003), Oct 6, 1990: Raven S-55A (N4062H), Bernalillo, NM, destroyed, 2 fatal. Probable cause: THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE VISUAL LOOKOUT, RESULTING IN AN INFLIGHT COLLISION WITH POWER LINES. - [NTSB DEN88LA201](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN88LA201), Aug 27, 1988: Raven S55A (N779TV), Fort Morgan, CO, no damage - [NTSB CHI88LA158](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/CHI88LA158), Jul 4, 1988: Raven S55A (N4186E), Mishawaka, IN, no damage - [NTSB DEN88LA081](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN88LA081), Feb 28, 1988: Raven S55A (N81DS), Los Lunas, NM, substantial damage - [NTSB CHI87LA167](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/CHI87LA167), Jul 12, 1987: Raven S55A (N40363), Springfield, MI, substantial damage - [NTSB LAX87LA120](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/LAX87LA120), Feb 22, 1987: Raven S-55A (N4261R), Tucson, AZ, no damage - [NTSB LAX87LA070](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/LAX87LA070), Dec 27, 1986: Raven S55A/AX7 (N5561P), Peoria, AZ, minor damage - [NTSB SEA85LA089](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/SEA85LA089), Apr 6, 1985: Raven R-7 (N41964), Mt. Vernon, WA, no damage - [NTSB DEN85LA078](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN85LA078), Jan 13, 1985: Raven S55A (N81DS), Littleton, CO, substantial damage - [NTSB MKC84LA287](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/MKC84LA287), Sep 30, 1984: Raven S55A (N8517L), Prairie City, IA, no damage - [NTSB DEN84LA273](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN84LA273), Aug 29, 1984: Raven S55A (N1048R), Littleton, CO, no damage - [NTSB NYC84FFJ03](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/NYC84FFJ03), Jul 15, 1984: Raven S55A (N40238), Lakeville, NY, destroyed - [NTSB ANC84LA104](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/ANC84LA104), Jun 22, 1984: Raven S-55A (N5562L), Anchorage, AK, substantial damage - [NTSB LAX84LA257](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/LAX84LA257), Apr 15, 1984: Raven S-55A-707 (N5717H), Glendale, AZ, no damage - [NTSB FTW83LA440](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/FTW83LA440), Sep 11, 1983: Raven S-55A (N2732R), Santa Fe, NM, substantial damage - [NTSB CHI83LA235](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/CHI83LA235), May 29, 1983: Raven S55A (N1127R), Rockford, IL, no damage - [NTSB ANC83LA049](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/ANC83LA049), Feb 28, 1983: Raven RX-7 (N5563L), Anchorage, AK, no damage - [NTSB FTW83LA011](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/FTW83LA011), Oct 7, 1982: Raven AX-7 (N40222), Albuquerque, NM, no damage - [NTSB CHI82DA345](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/CHI82DA345), Sep 8, 1982: Raven S55 (N4053P), Mattawan, MI, destroyed - [NTSB LAX82DA098](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/LAX82DA098), Feb 6, 1982: Raven S-55A (N5571N), Glendale, AZ, substantial damage - [NTSB NYC82FNA05](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/NYC82FNA05), Nov 14, 1981: Raven S-55A (N2463R), Shirley, MA, no damage - [NTSB LAX82FUJ07](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/LAX82FUJ07), Nov 14, 1981: Raven AX-7 (N5730M), Phoenix, AZ, substantial damage - [NTSB FTW82FQA05](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/FTW82FQA05), Oct 9, 1981: Raven S-55A (N3251R), Corrales, NM, destroyed - [NTSB FTW82FQA02](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/FTW82FQA02), Oct 8, 1981: Raven S-55A (N2792R), Albuquerque, NM, no damage - [NTSB ANC81DAG36](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/ANC81DAG36), May 23, 1981: Raven S-55A (N5561L), Anchorage, AK, no damage - [NTSB MIA81FLD33](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/MIA81FLD33), Apr 25, 1981: Raven S55A (N77FM), Englewood, FL, substantial damage - [NTSB FTW81DQA21](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/FTW81DQA21), Mar 29, 1981: Raven AX-7 (N1237R), Rio Rancho, NM, no damage - [NTSB LAX81DUJ18](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/LAX81DUJ18), Nov 15, 1980: Raven S-55A (N5702T), Sun City West, AZ, substantial damage - [NTSB LAX81DUJ19](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/LAX81DUJ19), Oct 18, 1980: Raven S-55A (N5714R), Sedona, AZ, substantial damage - [NTSB NYC80FHA16](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/NYC80FHA16), Jun 14, 1980: Raven S55 (N57069), Upr Mkfld Twp, PA, no damage - [NTSB MKC80DA033](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/MKC80DA033), May 3, 1980: Raven S55A (N1089R), Council Bluffs, IA, substantial damage - [NTSB IAD80FKW04](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/IAD80FKW04), Jan 3, 1980: Raven S55A (N8542L), Knoxville, TN, no damage - [NTSB MIA80FA018](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/MIA80FA018), Dec 15, 1979: Raven S-55A (N64RR), Davie, FL, destroyed, 4 fatal - [NTSB DEN80FA002](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN80FA002-201190), Oct 10, 1979: Raven S55AX7 (N403AA), Albuquerque, NM, destroyed, 2 fatal - [NTSB OAK78DVD43](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/OAK78DVD43), Jul 9, 1978: Raven S-55A (N70BE), Tracy, CA, minor damage - [NTSB DEN76DQA44](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/DEN76DQA44), Apr 25, 1976: Raven S-55A (N54708), Albuquerque, NM, substantial damage - [NTSB NYC76AN031](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/NYC76AN031), Sep 7, 1975: Raven S55A (N51508), Greenwich, CT, no damage ## FAA accident and incident reports (86, newest 50) From the FAA Accident/Incident Data System. Reports are matched to registry aircraft by N-number and event date, checked against the reported make and model; the registry's history has gaps, so older matches can be wrong. Compare the reported make and model. - [Incident 20061021029049I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/20061021029049I), Oct 21, 2006: Raven S55A (N4274D), Goodyear, AZ, Minor damage. (-23) During the morning launch at the Goodyear hot air balloon event, the basket of N4247D contacted the envelope of another balloon, N210US, during its… - [Incident 20031025031679I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/20031025031679I), Oct 25, 2003: Raven S55A (N5725M), Washington Twsp, NJ, Minor damage. (-23) Pilot launched balloon flight and terminated flight early as surface winds picked up. Balloon struck cable tv line when landing in field and wind… - [Incident 20021103035369I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/20021103035369I), Nov 3, 2002: Raven S55A (N4192J), Embarass, WI, Minor damage. (-23) The pilot of N4192J had made a flight on 11-03-02, in order to drop two skydivers in the Embarass, WI area, after dropping the skydivers, he attempted a… - [Accident 20010428011079A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/20010428011079A), Apr 28, 2001: Raven S55A (N40555), Albuquerque, NM, No damage. (.19)On April 28, 2001, at 0841 mountain daylight time, a Raven S55A, N40555, was substantially damaged when it struck powerlines while landing in Albuquerque,… - [Accident 20000825036319A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/20000825036319A), Aug 25, 2000: Raven S55A (N1073R), Lincoln, IL, No damage. (-23)The pilot of N1073R, a Raven hot air balloon, lifted off from the logan county fairground racetrack, Lincoln, Illinois, in a free flight balloon event… - [Incident 19970715021999I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19970715021999I), Jul 15, 1997: Raven S55A (N4194K), Fenton, MO. Narrative: during climb after lift-off, 1/4 mile downwind, a fire developed, 6 to 8 inch flames located outside of the burner, where the fitting joins the… - [Accident 19960705016389A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19960705016389A), Jul 5, 1996: Raven S55A (N4273Y), Gunnison, CO. Balloon made hard landing, two passengers thrown out. - [Incident 19941111043879I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19941111043879I), Nov 11, 1994: Raven S55A (N5561N), Anchorage, AK, Minor damage. Gusty wind came up. Unable to land at chosen spot. Began go around. Gondola hit power line. Landed safe other field - [Incident 19930904039209I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19930904039209I), Sep 4, 1993: Raven S55A (N80SR), Rapid City, SD, Minor damage. After landing and before pilot deflated envelope wind shift caused balloon to drift into powerlines. - [Accident 19921008042541A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19921008042541A), Oct 8, 1992: Raven S55A (N57115), Albuquerque, NM. Gondola struck by balloon rising underneath,N8EN,was able to untangle,landed safe. Fail to note rising balloon. - [Incident 19910427026842I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19910427026842I), Apr 27, 1991: Raven S55A (N4192B), Louisville, KY. NR4192B was hit from above and behind while in level flig ht in drop zone. - [Incident 19901028047199I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19901028047199I), Oct 28, 1990: Raven S55A (N2810D), Millard, KS. On landing the balloon basket rolled on its side and was dragged due to gust. Passengers hip injured. - [Accident 19901006044229A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19901006044229A), Oct 6, 1990: Raven S55A (N4062H), Bernalillo, NM, Destroyed, 2 fatal. Balloon struck a powerline and caught fire. Occupants tried to slide down a rope but lost grip and fell to ground. - [Incident 19891119059449I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19891119059449I), Nov 19, 1989: Raven S55A (N4262A), San Marcos, CA, Minor damage. On landing, rope to ground disconnected. Balloon bounced and hit powerlines. Tipped over into ditch. - [Incident 19891011065089I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19891011065089I), Oct 11, 1989: Raven S55A (N2974R), Bernalillo, NM, Minor damage. Balloon struck the chase crew truck on landing. Pilot stated he had a windshear during landing. - [Incident 19891008066729I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19891008066729I), Oct 8, 1989: Raven S55A (N1128R), Albuquerque, NM. Denver NTSB downgraded to incident. - [Incident 19890514031979I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19890514031979I), May 14, 1989: Raven S55A (N4192B), Louisville, KY. Balloon made hard landing in high wind. Basket tipped on impact spilling passengers. Minor injuries. - [Incident 19890513024449I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19890513024449I), May 13, 1989: Raven S55A (N57067), Walla Walla, WA, Minor damage. Collided with power lines on final approach. Made a safe landing pilot did not see the lines. Minor damage. - [Incident 19890402024059I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19890402024059I), Apr 2, 1989: Raven S55A (N418BW), Dicacho Peak, AZ, Minor damage. Wind picked up for landing, caused balloon gondola to drag through scrub trees before stopping. - [Incident 19880911038069I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19880911038069I), Sep 11, 1988: Raven S55A (N41964), Verdi, CA. Balloonist braced for landing. Foot got wedged between fuel tank and basket. Could not roll out and broke ankle. - [Accident 19880827054269A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19880827054269A), Aug 27, 1988: Raven S55A (N779TV), Ft Morgan, CO. Wind was gusting on takeoff then increased. Passengers advised to bend knees for landing. One received broken ankle - [Accident 19880704025969A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19880704025969A), Jul 4, 1988: Raven S55A (N4186E), Mishawaka, IN. A passenger was injured on landing when the wind blew the gondola over and dragged it over the ground. - [Accident 19880228005479A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19880228005479A), Feb 28, 1988: Raven S55A (N81DS), Los Lunas, NM, Substantial damage. Pilot suffered broken kneecap trying to land in a high wind. Gondola hit twice, rose up and made high wind landing. - [Incident 19870808057999I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19870808057999I), Aug 8, 1987: Raven S55A (N40356), Jamestown, ND. Attempting to discharge passengers, one jumped at 4 feet. 2 hanging on fell off when balloon rose. - [Accident 19870712038182A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19870712038182A), Jul 12, 1987: Raven S55A (N40363), Springfield, MI, Substantial damage. Basket was struck by top of a fast rising balloon N1505F. Impact ripped envelope and the balloon fell to ground. - [Accident 19870222003109A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19870222003109A), Feb 22, 1987: Raven S55A (N4261R), Tucson, AZ. The balloon landed hard in high winds. Passengers were injured when thrown from basket. No pilot weather briefing. - [Accident 19861227072309A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19861227072309A), Dec 27, 1986: Raven S55A (N5561P), Peoria, AZ, Minor damage. The balloon landed hard in high winds. The pilot reported a microburst, but no weather briefing was obtained. - [Incident 19861008065519I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19861008065519I), Oct 8, 1986: Raven S55A (N4198P), Albuquerque, NM. Passenger was not braced for landing and was thrown around gondola resulting in minor injuries. - [Incident 19860603061899I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19860603061899I), Jun 3, 1986: Raven S55A (N57221), Elgin, IL. A passenger bruised an elbow when the balloon basket tipped on landing. Not unusual for baskets to tip on landings. - [Incident 19860517031939I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19860517031939I), May 17, 1986: Raven S55A (N5707A), El Paso, TX. During descent for landing a whirlwind blew out the pilot light. A hard landing was made. Passenger fell out. - [Incident 19860402018889I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19860402018889I), Apr 2, 1986: Raven S55A (N40809), Cahokia, IL, Minor damage. During deflation from tethered display a gust of wind caused balloon to break away. Blew into a light pole. - [Incident 19850420026759I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19850420026759I), Apr 20, 1985: Raven S55A (N4195Z), Annapolis, MD, Minor damage. Struck roof with chase person dangling from drop line. Came to rest in trees. Minor injury to chase person. - [Incident 19850406018999I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19850406018999I), Apr 6, 1985: Raven S55A (N57048), Wimberley, TX, Minor damage. While attempting to slow speed by brushing tree, got stuck in tree top. Limb broke and gondola dropped to ground. - [Accident 19850406014129A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19850406014129A), Apr 6, 1985: Raven S55A (N41964), Mount Vernon, WA. Basket rolled over on landing and student suffered a broken leg. Normal landing. - [Incident 19850224009649I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19850224009649I), Feb 24, 1985: Raven S55A (N4400F), Steamboat Sprin, CO, Minor damage. After drifting over ridge downdrafts forced balloon into trees. - [Incident 19850205007879I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19850205007879I), Feb 5, 1985: Raven S55A (N4392H), Golden, CO, Minor damage. Balloon was tethered in parking lot for display. Gust of wind blew the envelope over. Envelope torn, sign damaged. - [Accident 19850113000779A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19850113000779A), Jan 13, 1985: Raven S55A (N81DS), Littleton, CO, Substantial damage. Precautionary landing due to increasing wind speed. Wind dragged balloon over a fence and draped it over powerline. - [Incident 19841014064009I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19841014064009I), Oct 14, 1984: Raven S55A (N56850), Santa Ana Puebl, NM, Minor damage. Balloon struck camping trailer and picnic shelter due to wind shear. One passenger fell out of gondola. - [Accident 19840930056549A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19840930056549A), Sep 30, 1984: Raven S55A (N8517L), Prairie City, IA. Passenger was injured during rough landing in a balloon. - [Accident 19840829073759A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19840829073759A), Aug 29, 1984: Raven S55A (N1048R), Chatfield, CO. During normal landing passengers body twisted opposite feet. Broke her leg. - [Incident 19840814051739I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19840814051739I), Aug 14, 1984: Raven S55A (N1302R), Louisville, KY, Substantial damage. Freak gust of wind broke balloons single tether. Struck another balloon and 5 autos after pilot had ripped out top. - [Accident 19840714035689A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19840714035689A), Jul 14, 1984: Raven S55A (N40238), Lakeville, NY, Destroyed. Failed to make a timely turn to avoid wires. Basket caught fire. Pilot jumped 40 feet to the ground. Basket burned. - [Accident 19840622028489A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19840622028489A), Jun 22, 1984: Raven S55A (N5562L), Anchorage, AK, Substantial damage. Baloon struck powerline during approach for landing in athletic field. - [Accident 19840415013789A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19840415013789A), Apr 15, 1984: Raven S55A (N5717H), Glendale, AZ. Balloon made hard landing in riverbed. Pilot reported encountering downdraft prior to touchdown. - [Accident 19830911051719A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19830911051719A), Sep 11, 1983: Raven S55A (N2732R), Santa Fe, NM, Substantial damage. Attempted landing between powerlines. Gondola, attachment cables and skirt contacted powerlines. - [Incident 19830710040049I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19830710040049I), Jul 10, 1983: Raven RX7 (N40762), Novi, MI. On descent toward an open field the balloon envelope struck two strands of electrical wire. Power interrupted. - [Accident 19830528022599A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19830528022599A), May 28, 1983: Raven S55A (N1127R), Rockford, IL. Pilots leg was broken during a hard landing. He stated he was not braced properly for the landing. - [Accident 19830228004562A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19830228004562A), Feb 28, 1983: Raven RX7 (N4195L), Anchorage, AK, No damage. Balloons collided while climbing after being launched at the same time. Other balloon N5563L. - [Accident 19830228004561A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19830228004561A), Feb 28, 1983: Raven RX7 (N5563L), Anchorage, AK. Balloons collided while climbing after being launched at the same time. Other balloon N4195L. - [Incident 19821107064019I](https://openairdocs.org/incident/19821107064019I), Nov 7, 1982: Raven S55A (N4034M), Cedar Springs, MI, Minor damage. Balloon started to lose altitude. Applied power but unable to stop sink. Struck powerlines. No malfunctions found. All 86: https://openairdocs.org/model/raven-s55a/incidents.md ## Service difficulty reports (2) As reported by operators and repair stations, by the model named in the report. - [SDR AALA20030933](https://openairdocs.org/sdr/AALA20030933), Sep 2, 2003: LIGHT. INOPERATIVE. DFW - DURING OVERNIGHT MAINTENANCE EMERGENCY LIGHT WAS INOPERATIVE AT SEAT 16D. REPLACED EMERGENCY LIGHT ASSEMBLY AT SEAT 16D. SYSTEM GROUND CHECKED NORMAL OPER - [SDR 96ZZZX1094](https://openairdocs.org/sdr/96ZZZX1094), Feb 1, 1996: GAUGE. FAILED. FAILURE OF PRESSURE GAUGE DURING FLIGHT AS A RESULT OF EXCESSIVE USE OF THE METERING VALVE. A SERVICE BULLETIN ADDRESSES THIS ISSUE, BUT WAS NEVER INSTALLED ON ## STCs that may be installed (OpenAirDocs) (22) Approved for this model: the STC's model list names it on its data sheet, or a series that includes it. In force first, then newest. The registry doesn't record which STCs an aircraft has. - [STC SB10564SC](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB10564SC): Installation of Night Position Lights. Highland Balloon Repair, CRS NHMD682X - [STC SB01030CH](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB01030CH): Replace Aerostar Basket/BurnerFuel Tanks with a Cameron Balloons Ltd. (Thunder & Colt) Basket/Burner/Fuel Tanks. Balloonacy LLC - [STC SB146CH](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB146CH): Replace Aerostar Basket/Burner with a Cameron Basket/Burner. Balloonacy LLC - [STC SB09657RC](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB09657RC): Installation of Aircraft Position Lights. Albuquerque Balloon Center, Inc - [STC SB04407AT](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB04407AT): Installation of the DBI-III Omega. Balloonacy, Ltd. LLC - [STC SB03361CH](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB03361CH): Replace the Aerostar basket, burner & fuel tanks; with Lindstrand basket, burner & fuel tanks. Cameron Balloons US - [STC SB917GL](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB917GL): Addition of a refueling adapter to the main fuel line. LTA Aviation Inc - [STC SB00601NY](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB00601NY): Installation of Aerostat Envelopes model W-100-4 replacement envelope. DiGiovanni Ronald T - [STC SB742NE](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB742NE): Installation of an Aerostat envelope, model W-140-2 (2-point system) and W-140-4 (point system). Ronald T. DiGiovanni - [STC SA2738SW](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SA2738SW): Installation of an electric operated valve. John Terry - [STC SB00407LA](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB00407LA): Installation of foam padded tank covers. John Terry - [STC SA5469NM](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SA5469NM): Installation of position light. Great American Balloon Co Inc - [STC SA2737SW](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SA2737SW): Removal of LPG regulator. AERCO - [STC SA2758SW](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SA2758SW): Installation of revised deflation valve. AERCO - [STC SL1572SO](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SL1572SO): Replacement of envelope fabric. Head Balloons Inc - [STC SL211RM](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SL211RM): Modification of suspension system and skirt of Raven S-55A hot air balloon envelope to achieve compatibility with Barnes Balloon Works gondola Models 4.0 and 4.5 and Model T3-017 burner system. Raven Industries, Inc - [STC SL163GL](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SL163GL): Modification: Move the velcro 4 to6 inches back away from the lip of the deflation port. Enlarge deflation panel. Wiederkehr Matt H - [STC SB9WE](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB9WE): Installation of a digital readout balloon envelope temperature indicator. Advanced Aircraft Components - [STC SB5WE](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB5WE): Installation of position lights on hot air balloon Model S55A, Serial number 138 ONLY. Limited to installation on this serial number 138 ONLY. Thornton Ronald D - [STC SL962SO](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SL962SO): Installation of ball lock pins, MS 17985-545 or MS 17984-545. Balloons, Inc - [STC SB4WE](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SB4WE): Installation of digital readout balloon envelope temperature indicator. Advanced Aircraft Components - [STC SA1720SW](https://openairdocs.org/stc/SA1720SW): Install four burner can assembly. Cutter Flying Service, Inc ## The same model under other registry codes Amateur-built copies and renamed makers get their own codes. - [Aerostar International S-55A](https://openairdocs.org/model/aerostar-international-s-55a): 13 registered aircraft, registry code 7485002 - [Aerostar International RAVEN S-55A](https://openairdocs.org/model/aerostar-international-raven-s-55a): 10 registered aircraft, registry code 7485055 - [Raven Industries S-55A](https://openairdocs.org/model/raven-industries-s-55a): 1 registered aircraft, registry code 7480609 - [Franc Demontgolfieres Sarl S55A](https://openairdocs.org/model/franc-demontgolfieres-sarl-s55a): 0 registered aircraft, registry code 0561440 - [Sikorsky S-55A](https://openairdocs.org/model/sikorsky-s-55a): 0 registered aircraft, registry code 8141613 --- OpenAirDocs.org is an independent research project of [Contrail Labs](https://contraillabs.com/). It is not affiliated with the FAA or the NTSB. Source documents are U.S. government works in the public domain.