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.
Among the eight lives lost were two couples, a mother and daughter, and local professionals including an ophthalmologist and a competitive figure skater. The tragedy has drawn heartfelt tributes from across the country, including messages from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Governor Jorginho Mello, who declared a period of official mourning.
Rescue teams responded swiftly, pulling survivors from the wreckage and nearby pastures. Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes, and emergency crews worked carefully around hazardous conditions, including flammable debris.
The operator, Sobrevoar Serviços Turísticos, has suspended all balloon rides and released a public statement expressing sorrow and cooperation with investigators.
This incident comes just weeks after another hot air balloon accident in São Paulo, raising concerns about flight safety standards within Brazil’s tourism industry.
What was intended as a joyful, scenic journey became an unimaginable loss for families and a region still processing the scope of the event. As investigations continue, officials and safety regulators are urging stronger oversight to prevent future tragedies.
