Brazil Balloon Tragedy: 8 Dead in Santa Catarina Crash
A hot air balloon ride turned deadly on June 21, 2025, when a fire caused a crash in Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Eight people were killed and 13 injured in the incident involving a balloon operated by Sobrevoar Serviços Turísticos.
The balloon, carrying 21 passengers, caught fire mid-flight. According to police, the pilot—who survived—reported the blaze started inside the basket. He attempted an emergency landing and urged passengers to jump.
Thirteen people, including the pilot, managed to leap to safety. Tragically, the lighter basket rose again with eight passengers trapped inside before falling after losing lift.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Early reports point to a backup burner that may have reignited. Strong winds during takeoff may have caused instability, possibly leading to a gas leak.
Among the victims were two couples, a mother and daughter, a figure skater, and an ophthalmologist. Some were found embracing, highlighting the heartbreak of their final moments.
Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes, including passengers falling while ablaze and survivors in shock. Emergency crews faced danger from leaking gas and had to cordon off the crash site.
Governor Jorginho Mello declared a mourning period, and President Lula da Silva offered federal support. Anac, Brazil’s aviation authority, is conducting a full investigation.
This crash follows another recent fatal balloon accident in São Paulo, prompting renewed scrutiny of ballooning safety across Brazil. Sobrevoar has suspended operations indefinitely amid the national grief and growing calls for stricter regulations.
