At least eight people tragically died and 13 were injured following a hot air balloon crash in southern Brazil on Saturday, June 21.
The disaster took place above Praia Grande in Santa Catarina, a region well-known for its scenic balloon tours. What started as a calm flight turned deadly when a fire suddenly broke out in the balloon’s basket, leading to a terrifying plunge.
Disturbing video captured the moment the balloon was consumed by flames as it descended. According to survivors, the pilot, aware of the growing danger, urged passengers to jump before the balloon gained more altitude. Thirteen people—including the pilot—managed to escape in time. But once their weight was gone, the balloon rose again with eight remaining passengers, before crashing and bursting into flames.
Investigators believe the fire might have been caused by a backup burner that reignited unexpectedly inside the basket. The pilot mentioned this could have been the ignition source. Strong winds during takeoff and the involvement of a truck pulling the balloon with cables may also have triggered a gas leak, worsening the situation.
Among the victims were two couples, a mother with her daughter, a physician, and a figure skater. Authorities reported that some of them were found embracing each other in their final moments.
Eyewitnesses described horrifying scenes at the crash site, including people on fire and bodies scattered across a nearby field. Emergency teams arrived swiftly but urged onlookers to stay away due to leaking gas and the threat of further explosions.
Following the crash, the balloon company Sobrevoar Serviços Turísticos halted all flights indefinitely. Brazil’s aviation authorities have launched a full investigation, promising to release findings within 30 days.
This incident marks the second deadly balloon accident in Brazil in recent weeks, raising serious concerns over the safety of the nation’s balloon tourism industry.