Sao Paulo: At least eight people lost their lives when a hot-air balloon carrying 21 people crashed on Saturday in Brazil’s southern state of Santa Catarina, according to local and state authorities. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning near the city of Praia Grande, after the tourism balloon reportedly caught fire mid-flight, the state fire department said. Thirteen people survived and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, officials added.
“We are all shocked by the accident involving a balloon in Praia Grande, this Saturday morning. Our rescue team is already on site… So far, we have confirmed eight deaths and two survivors,” local governor Jorginho Mello said on X.
Smoke was visible billowing from the balloon as it deflated and descended, eyewitnesses reported.
The crash has raised major concerns about the safety standards of balloon tour operations in the region, which experiences a surge in aerial activities during June’s festive season. Authorities are now probing whether the tour operator complied with safety protocols and if factors like technical failure or weather conditions played a role in the fire.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another balloon crash in São Paulo state just a week ago, where one woman died and 11 others were injured—further intensifying scrutiny on the safety of ballooning during Brazil’s popular festival period.
Praia Grande is a well-known spot for hot-air ballooning, especially during June, when southern Brazil celebrates Catholic saints like Saint John with festive activities.
