Eight killed as hot air balloon catches fire and falls in Brazil

BRASILIA: At least eight people were killed when a hot-air balloon caught fire and crashed near the tourist town of Praia Grande in southern Brazil.

The balloon, carrying 21 passengers, burst into flames mid-air before plummeting to the ground.

Thirteen people survived the crash, several with minor injuries, according to local authorities.

Horrific footage circulating online showed one passenger falling from the balloon moments before impact. Additional video showed ground staff struggling to manage the balloon just before the fatal incident unfolded.

Trigger Warning: Disturbing footage

It marks the second deadly hot-air balloon accident in Brazil in less than a week, raising serious questions about safety standards in the country’s popular balloon tourism industry.

Santa Catarina state governor Jorginho Mello confirmed the toll in a statement on X, saying: “Eight fatalities and 13 survivors.”

Eyewitness videos aired on Brazilian television captured the terrifying scene as the balloon ignited above a rural area. The basket, engulfed in flames, plunged dozens of meters before hitting the ground. Some passengers were seen attempting to jump from the balloon in a desperate bid to survive.

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Emergency responders and firefighters arrived swiftly at the crash site, with survivors transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and assess potential lapses in safety protocols.

Praia Grande, a popular destination known for scenic hot-air balloon rides, is now the focus of national mourning and renewed calls for stricter aviation safety measures.