One person has died and 19 others were injured in a tragic hot air balloon accident in Turkey. The incident took place near the Ihlara Valley in Aksaray province, a popular area for ballooning.
According to reports, the pilot of the balloon lost his life after a sudden change in the wind caused the balloon to make a hard landing. During this difficult landing, the pilot fell out of the basket and became entangled in a rope, leading to his death. Aksaray Governor Mehmet Ali Kumbuzoglu confirmed the details, stating that the pilot was unfortunately trapped under the balloon’s basket.
The injured passengers, all Indonesian tourists, were quickly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. In a separate incident on the same day, another hot air balloon also experienced a hard landing, injuring 12 Indian tourists who were also taken to the hospital.
Hot air ballooning is a popular activity in central Turkey, especially in regions like Cappadocia, known for its stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. However, this accident highlights the risks involved in such adventures. Eyewitness videos show the deflated balloon and emergency services responding to the scene, tending to the injured.
As investigations continue, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in tourism activities.