On June 21, 2025, a tragic hot air balloon crash occurred in Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brazil, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The balloon was carrying 21 people when it caught fire mid-air, believed to have been caused by a blowtorch accidentally igniting inside the basket.
The pilot attempted an emergency landing and instructed passengers to jump. Some did, but as others remained, the balloon rose again before plummeting to the ground in flames.
Eight people died—four from the fire and four from the fall. Thirteen others, including the pilot, survived and were transported to the hospital for treatment.
The balloon ride was operated by a local company called Sobrevoar. While the operator was reportedly licensed, hot air balloon flights have technically been banned in Brazil since 1998, though illegal and unregulated flights still occur, especially during festival seasons.
Authorities have launched a formal investigation into the crash, expected to conclude within 30 days. The incident has raised serious concerns about balloon flight safety in Brazil, especially after a similar fatal accident occurred just days earlier in São Paulo. The government has pledged support for victims and is reviewing enforcement of flight regulations.
