At least eight people were killed on Saturday, June 21st, after a hot air balloon caught fire and crashed in southern Brazil, authorities have confirmed. A total of 21 people were on board the balloon, according to the governor of the state of Santa Catarina.
Governor Jorginho Mello stated on social media platform X that there were eight fatalities and thirteen survivors. Eyewitness videos broadcast on Brazilian television captured the dramatic moment the balloon caught fire mid-air over the coastal city of Praia Grande. The balloon’s basket ignited and plummeted to the ground.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation. Footage from the scene appears to show favorable weather conditions at the time of the incident.
Praia Grande is known as a popular destination for ballooning and other air sports in Brazil. This tragedy marks the second fatal hot air balloon accident in the country within a short span. Less than a week ago, a passenger died during a balloon flight in the southeastern state of São Paulo.
Authorities continue to examine what led to the deadly incident as the country mourns the victims.
At least 8 people died after a hot air balloon carrying 22 crashed in Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brazil, catching fire mid-air. #PraiaGrande #Balão #Tragédia_SC pic.twitter.com/BVy6cYjLOX
— GeoTechWar (@geotechwar) June 21, 2025
Atualização do acidente:
21 pessoas a bordo – 8 vítimas fatais, 13 sobreviventes.
Nossas equipes seguem prestando todo apoio necessário às famílias e vítimas.
Continuamos acompanhando a situação.
— Jorginho Mello (@jorginhomello) June 21, 2025