At least eight people have died following a tragic hot air balloon accident in Brazil’s southern city of Praia Grande, located in the state of Santa Catarina. The incident occurred on Saturday morning, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit community and the wider nation.
According to Santa Catarina Governor Jorginho Mello, 21 people were aboard the balloon when the accident happened. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Mello confirmed that rescue operations swiftly commenced at the site of the crash. By the afternoon, he confirmed that 13 people had survived, while eight were confirmed dead.
“We are all shocked by the accident,” said Mello. “Our teams continue to provide all necessary support to families and victims. We continue to monitor the situation.”
Authorities have not yet revealed the cause of the crash, and an investigation has been launched to determine the sequence of events that led to the disaster. Eyewitnesses in the area reported seeing the balloon in distress shortly before it descended rapidly.
Praia Grande, a scenic municipality nestled in Santa Catarina’s southern region, is widely known as a hotspot for adventure tourism, particularly hot air ballooning. Nicknamed the “Capital of Canyons,” the area is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrain, including 11 canyons that form part of the Aparados da Serra and Serra Geral National Parks. The picturesque setting attracts thousands of tourists annually, many of whom seek the unique experience of floating above the canyons at sunrise.
The tragedy has raised fresh concerns about the safety of balloon flights in Brazil, particularly in tourist-heavy regions. While hot air ballooning is generally considered safe, incidents such as this underscore the risks involved when dealing with airborne activities.
Local authorities, along with Brazil’s civil aviation and safety bodies, are expected to review regulations and oversight in light of the accident.
As the investigation continues and families mourn their loved ones, the community of Praia Grande is left to grapple with an unexpected tragedy in a place so often associated with awe and wonder.
