At least eight people were killed this Saturday in a tragic hot air balloon accident in Praia Grande, located in the state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. The incident occurred in the morning hours in an area known for its tourist balloon rides offering breathtaking views of the region’s canyons.
The news was confirmed by Governor Jorginho Mello through his account on the social network X, where he expressed deep sorrow: “We are devastated by the balloon accident in Praia Grande this Saturday morning. Our rescue team is already on-site… So far, we have confirmed eight deaths and two survivors.”
GLOBO AEROSTÁTICO SE DESPLOMA EN BRASIL 🎈🔥😱
Al menos ocho personas murieron y varias más están desaparecidas tras un accidente con un globo aerostático que se incendió y cayó este sábado en Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brasil.
Autoridades confirmaron que había al menos 22… pic.twitter.com/35EpIQk0z4
— Nuestro Diario (@NuestroDiario) June 21, 2025
Preliminary reports indicate that 22 people were aboard the balloon. While emergency crews continue search operations, the death toll could rise, warned Mello, who emphasized the severity of the situation. Two people have been rescued alive, while the rest remain missing.
A video circulating on social media shows the exact moment of the accident. The dramatic footage captures the balloon catching fire mid-air, losing lift, and ultimately crashing. The video has caused widespread shock among local residents and internet users following the story.
Praia Grande, located in southern Santa Catarina, has become a popular destination in recent years for aerial sports and adventure tourism. Hot air balloon rides are one of its main attractions, offering visitors panoramic views of the natural landscapes and canyons that define the region.
However, the tragedy has raised serious concerns about the safety of such activities. Saturday’s accident comes just days after a similar incident in the town of Boituva, in São Paulo state, where a woman died and 11 others were injured in another hot air balloon mishap.
The string of recent incidents has alarmed both authorities and the public, sparking urgent debate over the regulation and oversight of these tourist services. Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and other regulatory bodies may now face pressure to tighten inspections and require higher safety standards from operators.
Meanwhile, rescue teams — including firefighters, medics, and specialists in difficult terrain — continue to work under challenging conditions due to the rugged, canyon-filled geography of the region. Authorities have urged residents and onlookers to stay away from the crash site to avoid hindering rescue efforts.
The confirmed death toll stands at eight, with two survivors rescued and several passengers still unaccounted for. Governor Mello reiterated that the information is preliminary and subject to change as the investigation progresses.
The community of Santa Catarina remains deeply affected, anxiously awaiting updates, and hoping for answers that will help clarify the causes of the tragedy and lead to measures that prevent similar events in the future.
