A hot air balloon accident in southern Brazil has claimed the lives of at least eight people. The incident occurred on Saturday morning in Praia Grande, a popular tourist destination known for its ballooning activities.
There were 21 people on board the balloon when it crashed, but 13 managed to survive the fall and are currently receiving medical attention. Authorities have confirmed that no one is missing.
According to eyewitnesses, a fire broke out inside the basket of the balloon, causing it to rise into the air again after the pilot had attempted to lower it. The victims were two couples, an ophthalmologist, and a figure skater.
The flight’s operator, Sobrevoar Serviços Turísticos, has suspended its activities indefinitely following the incident. The company claims to have followed all regulations set by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (Anac) and had no prior history of accidents.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has expressed solidarity with the families of the victims, placing federal resources at their disposal to aid in the rescue and care of those affected.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c17w04wxwpxo