A hot air balloon accident in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina killed at least eight people on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The balloon, carrying 21 passengers including the pilot, caught fire mid-flight and crashed near the tourist town of Praia Grande, a popular hot air ballooning destination known for its canyon scenery and June festivities honoring Catholic saints
Thirteen people survived the incident and were taken to hospitals with varying injuries. According to officials, some passengers survived by jumping out of the balloon when the fire started, but tragically eight people died—four of whom were charred by the fire and four who fell from the balloon during its descent
The cause of the fire and crash remains under investigation. The pilot was experienced and reportedly followed recommended safety procedures in an attempt to save everyone onboard. The hot air balloon company involved, Sobrevoar, stated it had complied with all regulations and has suspended operations indefinitely
Local and state authorities, including Santa Catarina’s governor Jorginho Mello, expressed shock and mourning over the tragedy and pledged full support to the victims’ families. The Brazilian federal government also offered assistance with the investigation
This incident follows another fatal hot air balloon crash in Brazil just the previous week in São Paulo state, highlighting recent safety concerns with this activity in the country