A close call between a freight train and hot air balloon in regional Western Australia has led to tougher new rules being introduced for flight operators.
The train driver was forced to apply full brakes when rounding a bend as they were confronted by the balloon hovering close to the tracks in November last year, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau heard in its investigation.
The train driver believed a collision was likely.
The balloon was coming in for a landing near Northam in WA's Wheatbelt after a scenic morning tour with 16 passengers on board, according to the pilot who told the ATSB that difficult wind direction meant they were unable to land at the planned location.
"Crops in the centre of the paddock and a powerline limited the available landing space, which meant the pilot was landing close to the fence," the report read.
According to the freight driver, the balloon was just above fence height as the train passed it narrowly.
As a result of the investigation, the balloon operator has amended its low flying operation standards to keep a minimum of 15 metres above road or rail corridors.
AAP
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