One dead and dozens injured after hot air balloon crash in Turkey
The tragic incident is said to have unfolded after a change in wind
Each year, hundreds of thousands of tourists travel to Turkey during the ballooning season, which peaks between June and August
(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images )
One person has died and 19 others have been injured after a hot air balloon crashed in Turkey. What was supposed to be an enjoyable holiday experience turned tragic on Sunday after two hot air balloons crashed in separate incidents in central Turkey.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of tourists travel to Turkey during the ballooning season, which peaks between June and August. The two incidents took place near the Ihlara Valley, an area known for its scenic landscapes and popular balloon flights.
Turkey's Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has confirmed that an investigation is now underway. In a statement, the ministry said: 'Unfortunately, the pilot of the balloon lost his life as a result of the hard landing. It was understood that the meteorological conditions were suitable for flight at the time of take-off, but the decision to land was made due to unexpected winds in the region.' For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here
According to local media reports, both balloons launched in favourable weather conditions but were forced to make sudden landings due to sudden changes in wind. It was during these landings that the accidents occurred.
In one of the incidents, 19 Indonesian tourists were injured and the pilot, who has not been named, died after falling from the basket and becoming entangled in a rope. Aksaray Governor Mehmet Ali Kumbuzoğlu said in a statement: 'Unfortunately, our pilot got stuck under the basket and died. Our tourists are in good condition. We took them to the hospital by ambulance. They are being examined.'
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In a separate incident, another balloon that had taken off from the Güzelyurt area also made a hard landing early on Sunday morning, resulting in minor injuries to 12 Indian tourists. According to the state-run Anadolu Agency, all of those injured were taken to hospital for treatment.
Footage shared by the İhlas News Agency showed one of the deflated balloons lying on its side with its passenger basket on the ground, as emergency services attended to the injured.
In response to the incidents, local authorities have launched a formal investigation, and tour operators have been advised to review their safety procedures.
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These are not the first fatal hot air balloon accidents to occur in Turkey in recent years. In 2022, two Spanish tourists died after a balloon made a hard landing during a sightseeing tour of Cappadocia, a region known for its distinctive rock formations.
The 'fairy chimney' rock structures of Cappadocia - created by centuries of erosion - are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and are a major attraction for tourists seeking hot air balloon experiences in the area.
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