Brazil Hot Air Balloon Crash Claims 8 Lives in Mid-Air Blaze
A devastating hot air balloon incident occurred in Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brazil, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals and injuries to 13 others on June 21, 2025. The balloon, operated by Sobrevoar Serviços Turísticos, was transporting 21 passengers when a fire erupted during the flight.
As reported by the police, the pilot initiated an emergency descent after flames erupted within the basket. He directed passengers to jump as the fire escalated. Thirteen individuals, including the pilot, managed to survive by jumping out. However, the balloon ascended rapidly after losing weight, leaving the remaining passengers trapped.
The balloon ultimately crashed in a forested area, creating a scene of destruction. Eyewitnesses recounted seeing people plummeting from the sky and thick smoke rising from the debris. Among the victims were couples, a mother and daughter, and a local figure skater.
