A devastating hot-air balloon accident in Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brazil, resulted in the deaths of eight people and injuries to thirteen others on Saturday morning.
The balloon, operated by Sobrevoar, caught fire in its basket around 8 a.m., prompting the pilot to attempt an emergency landing. Video footage captured thick black smoke rising from the balloon as it plummeted into a wooded area.
The aircraft, carrying 21 passengers including the pilot, was part of a popular 45-minute ride costing approximately $100 per person, reaching altitudes of up to 1,000 meters.
The fire forced thirteen passengers, including the pilot, to jump from the balloon to safety, though they sustained injuries requiring hospital treatment.
The reduced weight caused the balloon to rise again, leaving eight passengers unable to escape.
Four victims were found charred, while another four died after jumping from the falling balloon.
Three victims were discovered embracing each other, a scene described as heart-wrenching by Ulisses Gabriel, chief of Santa Catarina’s civil police force.
The military fire brigade confirmed the crash’s severity, and Sobrevoar, which maintained a clean safety record, has suspended operations indefinitely.
Authorities have launched an investigation, with results expected within 30 days.
The pilot has provided testimony, and survivors’ statements will be collected.
Santa Catarina’s Governor Jorginho Mello expressed grief, emphasizing state support for victims’ families.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva offered federal assistance.
Praia Grande, known as the “Brazilian Cappadocia” for its scenic canyons and frequent balloon rides, sees 25 to 30 daily trips.
This tragedy follows another recent balloon crash in Sao Paulo state, raising concerns about safety in the region’s popular hot-air ballooning industry.