Eight Killed, Thirteen Injured as Hot-Air Balloon Bursts Into Flames and Crashes in Brazil
- Victor Nwoko
- Jun 22
- 2 min read
At least eight people have died and thirteen others were injured after a hot-air balloon caught fire and crashed in the municipality of Praia Grande, located in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina.
The tragic accident occurred while 21 people were on board the balloon. Eyewitness videos captured the balloon engulfed in flames and plummeting rapidly, trailing thick smoke before crashing to the ground. Survivors were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
Governor Jorginho Mello confirmed the incident in a public statement, declaring a period of mourning for the victims. “We are in mourning. A tragedy has happened. We will see how it unfolds, what happened, why it happened. But the important thing now is for the state structure to do what it can,” he said.
The governor added that he had mobilized state authorities to assist in rescue and relief operations and provide support to the victims’ families.
Praia Grande, often referred to as the “capital of the canyons,” is a popular tourist destination and a well-known hotspot for hot-air ballooning due to its scenic landscapes.
Local officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and crash. The Civil Police and aviation safety agencies are involved in collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another hot-air balloon tragedy in Brazil. On June 15, a woman lost her life during a balloon ride in the southeastern state of São Paulo, prompting renewed concerns over balloon safety regulations in the country.
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