Praia Grande, Brazil – June 21, 2025 – At least eight people have died after a hot air balloon carrying 21 passengers crashed in the southern Brazilian city of Praia Grande on Saturday morning, state officials confirmed.
According to Jorginho Mello, the Governor of Santa Catarina, the balloon accident occurred near a local health centre in the popular tourist city, which is renowned for its ballooning activities. Thirteen people, including the pilot, survived the crash and have been taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. No one is currently missing.
“According to the pilot, who is one of the survivors, a fire started inside the basket,” officer Tiago Luiz Lemos of the Praia Grande police told reporters at the scene. “He began to lower the balloon and told passengers to jump when it was close to the ground. Some managed to, but others did not. The flames intensified, and the balloon began to rise again due to the weight, eventually falling from a loss of suspension.”
Governor Mello, who is currently on an official mission in China, released a video message on social media platform X, stating that he had mobilized “the entire state structure” to assist with rescue efforts and provide support to the victims’ families.
“We are in mourning. What happened is a tragedy,” said Mello. “We will investigate why this happened. But the important thing now is to do everything possible to reach out to the people and the families.”
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also expressed his condolences on X, offering his “solidarity with the families of the victims.” He confirmed that the federal government was at the disposal of the state and municipal authorities and that coordinated efforts were ongoing to provide care and support to the survivors.
Praia Grande, located in the southern state of Santa Catarina, is a well-known destination for tourists seeking hot air balloon adventures and scenic views. The crash has cast a shadow over the region, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as emergency crews remain at the site.
