Brazil Hot Air Balloon Tragedy Leaves Multiple Dead as Fire Breaks Out Mid-Flight

In a tragic hot air balloon accident in Santa Catarina, Brazil, two people were seen falling through the air as flames spread across the aircraft.

Of the 21 confirmed passengers, 13 survived and were taken to hospitals, while authorities are searching for a possible 22nd victim who may have boarded at the last minute.

The pilot, who survived, said the fire started in a backup burner stored in the basket and may have reignited unexpectedly. As the flames spread, he attempted an emergency descent and told passengers to jump when close to the ground.

Some managed to escape with injuries, but others remained in the basket. After several people jumped, the balloon became lighter and rose again with the remaining passengers.

The balloon eventually detached from the burning basket, which plummeted to the ground, killing those inside. Rescue teams continue searching, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Em menos de 15 dias tivemos duas tragédias no Brasil envolvendo balões. Uma em Capela do Alto, outra, que aconteceu hoje, em Praia Grande, Santa Catarina

Passeio de balão é bonito? Sim. Mas são perigosos e arcaicos!

Balões são tão perigosos quanto os dirigíveis do sec passado! pic.twitter.com/mxX5kijSAF

— Como Tanka o Bostil? (@Como_Tanka) June 21, 2025