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On June 21, 2025, a hot-air balloon carrying twenty-one people exploded in mid-air over Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brazil, resulting in eight fatalities and 13 injuries. The balloon, operated by Sobrevoar, ignited near 8 AM local time when a backup torch in the basket sparked a fire. Footage captured by witnesses vividly showed flames enveloping the balloon’s basket, prompting several passengers to jump to safety. Whilst thirteen survivors, including the pilot, were hospitalised with varying injuries, eight passengers did not survive. Four were burned in the basket, whilst four others perished after jumping during the descent.
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Authorities have launched a formal investigation, expected to conclude within thirty days, to determine the exact cause of the blaze. Both the Santa Catarina state government and President Lula da Silva have expressed condolences and pledged full support for the victims and their families. Governor Jorginho Mello declared a period of mourning and stated that state resources would aid recovery efforts. Praia Grande, nicknamed the “Brazilian Cappadocia” is a renowned hot-air ballooning destination with around 25–30 daily flights during peak season. Following the crash, Sobrevoar suspended all operations indefinitely, citing a previously unblemished safety record.
This incident is the second hot-air balloon disaster to strike Brazil in under a week, raising serious concerns about ballooning safety standards. As the aviation community awaits the investigation’s findings, families of the victims and survivors continue to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating event.
