A hot air balloon with 21 passengers caught fire while flying a few meters above the ground in Santa Catarina, a southern state in Brazil, resulting in the tragic deaths of eight individuals. Fortunately, the remaining passengers, including the pilot, managed to survive and were transported to a hospital.
Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency has stated that they are taking all essential measures to investigate the circumstances surrounding the aircraft and its crew.
“The pilot, who survived the incident, reported that a fire ignited inside the basket. He then began to lower the balloon and instructed passengers to jump when it was near the ground,” said officer Tiago Luiz Lemos from the Praia Grande police station, as reported by the BBC.
“They began to jump, but some were unable to escape. The flames intensified, and due to the added weight, the balloon started to ascend again.
“Eventually, it crashed due to a loss of suspension.”
Tragically, those who were unable to leap from the hot air balloon lost their lives. Authorities revealed that three of the victims were discovered holding each other at the moment of their demise.
“We are grieving. A tragedy has occurred. We will observe how it develops, what transpired, and the reasons behind it. However, the crucial aspect at this moment is for the state apparatus to take all possible actions,” stated Gov. Jorginho Mello in a video on X.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his sympathies to the families of the victims and pledged federal assistance to both the survivors and local authorities.
The hot air balloon journey was intended to last 45 minutes and reach an altitude of 3,280 feet — the cost for the ride was $100 per person.
Sobrevoar, the company responsible for the colorful balloon, announced in a statement that it adhered to all regulations and had no previous accidents recorded before Saturday.
“Despite taking all necessary precautions and the efforts of our pilot – who possesses extensive experience and followed all recommended procedures in an attempt to ensure the safety of everyone on board the balloon – we are deeply affected by the sorrow brought on by this tragedy,” the statement expressed.
Praia Grande, located in southern Santa Catarina, where the incident occurred, is a popular tourist destination famous for its stunning canyon landscapes. It is often referred to as the “Brazilian Cappadocia,” in reference to Turkey’s renowned hot-air ballooning region.
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