In a tragic incident in central Turkey, a hot air balloon crash resulted in the death of its pilot and left 19 tourists from Indonesia injured. The unfortunate event occurred as the balloon attempted to land near the village of Gozlukuyu in the province of Aksaray. According to a statement from the governor’s office, the balloon was subject to a sudden and unfavorable change in wind conditions, which led to the mishap.
Aksaray Governor Mehmet Ali Kumbuzoglu elaborated on the incident, explaining that the pilot was ejected from the basket during the landing attempt. In a tragic turn, his feet became ensnared in a rope connected to the balloon, ultimately causing his death. Meanwhile, the injured tourists were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The sport of hot air ballooning has become a beloved attraction for tourists visiting the scenic landscapes of central Turkey. The area is renowned for its unique geological formations, including the famed “fairy chimneys” – tall, tapered stone cones formed by natural erosion over the course of millennia. These natural wonders, along with ancient churches carved into the cliffs, make the region a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Footage obtained by Ilhas News Agency depicted the deflated balloon with its passenger basket toppled on its side as emergency services attended to those who were hurt. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident.
In a related incident at the Ilhara Valley, another hot air balloon experienced a harsh landing on the same morning. Reports from the state-operated Anadolu Agency indicated that 12 tourists from India suffered minor injuries and were also transported to a hospital.
The hot air balloon community in the region has faced similar tragedies before. Notably, in 2022, two Spanish tourists lost their lives following a hard landing during a sightseeing trip over the captivating vistas of Cappadocia. These incidents underscore the inherent risks associated with the popular aerial activity amidst the stunning but potentially perilous landscapes of Turkey.