Tragic Hot Air Balloon Accident in Brazil Leaves Eight Dead, Sparks National Investigation
What began as a scenic hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscape of southern Brazil ended in tragedy on the morning of June 21. A fire broke out mid-flight over Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, leading to the deaths of eight passengers and injuring 13 others.
The flight, operated by tourism company Sobrevoar Serviços Turísticos, took off with 21 passengers expecting panoramic views of forests and farmland. However, according to survivors and officials, flames suddenly erupted in the balloon’s basket during the flight.
Pilot Tiago Luiz Lemos, who survived, said he was forced to make an emergency descent and instructed passengers to jump as the balloon neared the ground. Thirteen people, including Lemos, managed to escape before the balloon—lighter from the weight loss—unexpectedly rose again with eight passengers still on board. The craft then lost lift and crashed.
Authorities believe the fire may have been caused by a gas leak involving a backup burner, potentially triggered by strong winds during takeoff. The balloon was being stabilized at the time using ground cables and a support truck—factors now under close examination.
Civil police and Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (Anac) have launched a full investigation. Preliminary results are expected within a month.
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