A Joyride That Turned Into a Nightmare On the morning of June 21, 2025, what began as a breathtaking sunrise balloon tour turned into a national tragedy in Brazil. A hot air balloon carrying 21 people, including the pilot, caught fire mid-air while flying over the scenic cliffs of Praia Grande in Santa Catarina. Within minutes, the peaceful ride turned into a desperate attempt to survive. As flames engulfed the basket, some passengers managed to leap to safety under the pilot's instruction. Others were not as fortunate.