Tragedy in the Skies: 8 Killed as Hot Air Balloon Catches Fire in Brazil

At least eight people lost their lives and 13 others were injured when a hot air balloon carrying 21 passengers caught fire and crashed in Brazil’s southern state of Santa Catarina on Saturday. The incident occurred in Praia Grande, a popular tourist area known for balloon rides.

The Santa Catarina military fire brigade reported that the injured were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Local authorities expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy.

“We are all shocked by the accident involving a balloon in Praia Grande this Saturday morning. Our rescue team is already on the spot… So far, we have confirmed eight deaths and two survivors,” Governor Jorginho Melo posted on social media platform X.

Dramatic video footage circulated online shows the balloon engulfed in flames while still airborne. Moments later, it deflates rapidly and plummets to the ground, trailing smoke.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have launched a full inquiry into the safety protocols of balloon operators in the region. Hot air ballooning is a popular tourist attraction in the area, and this incident has raised serious concerns about flight safety and regulation enforcement.