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Subscribe to RSSWhile flying over the city of Luxor, a hot air balloon caught fire and plunged 1000 feet the ground, killing 19 people and injuring two. NBC's Brian Williams reports.
A hot air balloon carrying foreign tourists caught on fire while it was in the air near Egypt's ancient city of Luxor, killing 19 people, officials said Tuesday.
During an aerial tour of Egypt's ancient Valley of the Kings, a hot air balloon exploded and fell to the ground in a fiery crash, killing multiple tourists on board. NBC's Ayman Mohyeldin reports.
The blazing balloon crashed to the ground early Tuesday morning, Gen. Mamdough Khaled, director of security for Luxor Governorate said, according to initial reports.
Khaled said that Luxor International Hospital had received 19 badly burned bodies. Health officials initially said 18 people died, but later said one injured person had succumbed to their injuries.
Ahmed Aboud, who runs another balloon company and acts as a spokesman for balloon operators in the area, and Khaled said two people survived. Khaled said both were in critical condition.
There were conflicting accounts of the accident itself.
Aboud said that gas tanks caught fire and ignited the balloon at about 1,000 feet.
But an eyewitness, who did not want to be identified, said the balloon was about 12 feet off the ground when a landing rope was thrown to people on the ground. As they grabbed it, the rope wrapped around a gas container, which broke and a fire then started, the witness said.
People 'like balls of fire'
The witness estimated the balloon then “shot up 500 meters" (1,640 feet) and the pilot "jumped out as it was going up.”
“Eight people jumped and they were like balls of fire, some were alive when they landed, but then died on the ground, then the balloon went up and down again and swept along, then a second explosion occurred when another gas canister exploded,” he added.
Another eyewitness told al-Jazeera television that the balloon was “like a fireball when it went up.”
One Egyptian was killed, Health Minister Mohamed Mostafa Hamed told Reuters, listing the other victims as tourists from Japan, China, France, Britain and Hungary. Earlier, officials had said all the dead were foreigners.
A U.S. Embassy spokesperson said that no Americans were among the victims, citing information from local police.
Thomas Cook Group, a major British travel company, said four of its customers on a seven-day holiday had opted to go on the balloon ride and three had died. A fourth remained in a hospital Tuesday.
"We recommend a number of suppliers" after vetting them, Thomas Cook spokeswoman Emma Staples said. "This one [the balloon company] would have been deemed a reputable supplier."
Peter Fankhauser, Thomas Cook's chief executive, called the accident "a terrible tragedy" and said in a statement that the company was sending counseling teams to Luxor. It has stopped promoting and selling balloon flights there while an investigation is conducted, he added.
Konny Matthews, assistant manager of Luxor's Al Moudira hotel, told Reuters by phone that she heard a boom around 7 a.m. (12 a.m. ET).
Courtesy Christopher Michel
Hot air balloons take off near the ancient city of Luxor on Tuesday before the tragedy occurred.
"It was a huge bang. It was a frightening bang, even though it was several kilometers away from the hotel," she added. "Some of my employees said that their homes were shaking."
A team of investigators was sent to Luxor, authorities said, and a moratorium was imposed on balloon flights.
The site of the accident has seen past crashes. In 2009, 16 tourists were injured when their balloon struck a cellphone transmission tower. A year earlier, seven tourists were injured in a similar crash.
Egypt's tourism industry has been decimated since the 18-day uprising in 2011 against autocrat leader Hosni Mubarak and the political turmoil that followed and continues to this day.
Luxor's hotels are currently about 25 percent full in what is supposed to be the peak of the winter season.
Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Related:
PhotoBlog: Hot air balloon crash kills 19 in Egypt
This story was originally published on Tue Feb 26, 2013 2:22 AM EST
Leave a Comment:
...21 people in a hot air balloon?
Yeah, that's what I was saying. I have never seen one of these up close; had no idea they could hold that many people.
Of course the pilot lived! He's the only one who knows what he's doing. He probably could've helped out the others a bit more, I would have hung over the edge until I couldn't hold any longer, better than burning to death. On another note, when are we ever going to hear a story about a hot air balloon with a good ending?
And these are the same people dumbo wants to sell F-16's to? Glad to hear that whole arab spring / democracy thing is really making Egypt the tourist mecca it once was too.
Aww Barry, so eager to add your own stupidity to yet another article. You've posted 20 comments and every single one just as retarded as the next.
The pilot was near the outside of the basket, he would have been telling the people smashed around the engine and tanks what he could see.
My family and I pray for the dead, injured and all the families and friends. We are sadden by your loses.
Good morning Chris... &... good one dude...
Not sure what your post means. There is no engine in a hot air balloon and why would the pilot be narrating what he could see? Don't get it.
They need tighter restrictions as in, limiting the hot air balloons to less people.
I would think 21 people in one basket is way too many. Even though it had nothing to do with the fire, it had a lot to do with more deaths.
Barry Soeetoro, The people flying the hot air baloon are not the same people our government is selling fighter jets. (get a clue) The truth is some people, like you, feel a need to take a cheep shot at the potus and blame him for everything. You suk!
Ban high capacity air balloons. Gm CD and the usual suspects.
Tourists take enough risks just by going to the Middle East, to go on a balloon is simply asking for it. Going on a cruise on a ship with a Southern Italian Captain is ridiculous, this is madness. People can learn more about Ancient Egypt and Ancient Egyptian in the British Museum or the town of Figeac in South West France where the Jean-François Champollion Museum is located and take in some civilized culture and gastronomy, not in an Egypt where so-called Egyptians today are Arab invaders and occupiers. Not unlike (so-called) Palestinians present day occupation of Israel.
A word to the wise: don't go parachuting, bungee jumping, hot air ballooning, parasailing, etc. in a third world country.
At least in the U.S., you can sue for damages when things go horribly wrong. We have plenty of lawyers ready and willing to take the case. We have safety standards. Not so in a country like Egypt.
Truly horrible. Having hosted a group of about ten people (who, along with the pilot, were the only people aboard -- and we had plenty of room to move about) on, perhaps, that very craft -- or a sister, this is a somber and sobering report. I am so sorry for those poor people and their families. This story is why I try to live each day as if it were my last.
maybe they were small people?
They were sitting ducks for a surface to air missile. No way would I ride a balloon in a country filled with radical Muslims.
JK, Looking for a new planet to which you can relocate?
My condolences to the families that have lost loved ones in this tragic accident.
Accidents happen everywhere.
Oh, don't worry Kaybee, there are international courts of law, you'd still get your payday.
this here story...needs some topic music...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-UQ0-8ktAM
What an awful way to go, burn to death or jump to it.
It's crazy that they said some of the people survived after the fall, that is an extreme height.
I guess I would approach a hot air balloon like an elevator. After about the 15th sardine packed themself in. I would have waited for the next elevator.
Out of 21 people, maybe one of them was dumb enough to light a cigarette next to the gas tank?
In Egypt they can fit 21 people in a pickup. No joking, they are creative when it comes to transport.
News flash, Michael! The USA is a free country and everyone has the right to disagree with whoever is president. You are a hypocrite, as well. People like you who think that Obama walks on water have no problems blaming Bush or any other previous president for any problem whatsoever. You shouldn't go pointing fingers when you are just as guilty as the person you are criticizing.
Confussed - at least you chose an appropriate moniker. Why would anyone go on a balloon ride if they have to listen to the pilot describe what he is seeing because they are too close to the engine (which balloons don't have) and can't see over the edge?
Did you even read the story? Wasn't a cigarette dude.
Perhaps they pile them onto the air balloon like they pile people onto trains in India.
https://www.google.com/search?q=india+train+travel+on+top+of+trains&hl=en&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=cfEsUaHaO4jM9QTWi4CgDg&sqi=2&ved=0CFoQsAQ&biw=1400&bih=733
Note to self: Stay out of hot air balloons, para gliders and zip lines on vacation.
Plain Bob;
Very rarely do I click on a youtube link. In your case I am glad I did.
That was great.. Thanks for the chuckle today.
for those who lost a loved one, I am sorry. But, they did get to see a beautiful view before the tragedy...i bet some were really happy... that should be held onto.
I would not go in a balloon unless they issued parachutes.
Scales67, you missed the point... To blame tptus when he certainly had nothing to do with the incident makes no since. The man (tpus) makes enough sketchy moves you could legitimately criticize him for and you'd be on point.. but to do nothing but post to every story "Obama Bad, Obama did it" borders on psychotic and obsessive.
that is one horrible way to die. while on fire, hoping the 1,000 foot fall, which is sure to kill you, doesnt take too long.
Probably a terrorist shot it down.
You don''t know that. Why would you want to start some thing like that?
well i kind'a had the same thought...but read the article said the tank caught on fire..but when the story first ran that info...might not have been in the article due to updates...
Most likely an idiot with a cigarette.
Yeah, it was Obama with an RPG launcher, that's what you mean right?
I think this is how Jerry Lee Lewis got his inspiration to write "Great Balls of Fire"...
Gee Ivanahumpalot
too bad your attempt at humor probably will not be appreciated.
It was...so funny.
Bobbis opinion SUCKS
bet you couldn't even define terrorist or name one group and the area they terrorize
simply put, uneducated comment by someone needing to throw the keyboard out the window
...spoon feeding time, ding ding, bobbis is hungry
the Democratic Party.
They terrorize the entire country with there lack of action with the economy.
They terrorize small business owners with over regulation and continued tax increases
They terrorize school children in Pakistan with Drones and bombs.
Blutowski O.O. You sir sound like a fool. Tell us more about how Obama gets blamed for this and the fact that the bigot house is holding us all back.
The hot air balloon had first a gas explosion then catching fire- in 300 meters- plummeted to a sugar beet field west of Luxor on the Nile. Luxor was built on the ancient site of Theba.Near the Valleys of Kings and Queens-sphinxes- a tourist attraction. In today's Egypt- there exists a dire need of inspecting of different gases including helium and others used in hot air ballooning.
NileTV- an apparent engine explosion. Luxor is 500 km/320 miles south of Cairo. Amongst the Tombs in the Valley is that of Tutankhamen's.
mimi jacques,
Modern 'Hot Air' balloons generally use Propane to heat the air for lift. They are usually VERY SAFE, until they contact power lines or have an inexperienced Pilot..
The Hindenburg was intended to be filled with helium (is an inert gas) but a United States military embargo on helium forced the Germans to use hydrogen...
The cause of the Hindenburg fire was static electricity & the flammable fabric covering. Even if they had used the non-flammable helium the fire would have occurred...
Oh, the humanity!!!!
Famous - In season hot air baloons go over the pasture in back of my house threee or four times a weeek. SO far, no problems. If I wasn't uncomfortable with heights I'd take a ride myself. stonepipe - a bunch of people died and the best you can do is spit out a tired quip about the Hindenburg - I admit I thought about it but decided it was not worth posting - when I saw you had posted it I knew I had made the right decision..
Ronnie, you hurt my feeelings. I am weeak in the kneees.
That's not the only place you are weak my friend. Just saying.
In related mimi jacques news- had first the air is full of gasses which need be inspected. They do way instane ballon. The nile is rivers in egypt. In todays egypt there are some things. This and more can be seen using your eyes.
I think the Hindenburg reference was very appropriate. It is the most famous balloon fire in history.
Cramy ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Are you speaking in code?
Thanks, Bluto.....Loved the movie and I was not being a smart ass, libbies don't have much of a sense of humor.
Sense of humor? Ah- not when it comes to people dieing. Think much?
Why would you vacation in a third world country that had just gone through a revolution and then get in a balloon with 19+ people.Safety is not a priority half-wits. Darwin is the man.
The passengers learned, briefly, what happens to infidels in Muslim countries.
It doesn't say where these people are from. If they are from Iran, or Somalia, Egypt may seem like a cultural paradise.
Yes, you're right. Accidents never happen in the U.S. No one is ever killed or seriously injured in a balloon crash, or a traffic accident, or, say, watching a stock car race.
Moron.
Janine-1645002; read much? 9 were from Hong Kong,4 were from Japan, two were from the UK and two that were not Identified.
Janine. Egyptians hate Iranians.
Wrong tribes.
Sunnis hate Shiites, therefore, Egyptians hate Iranians. Saudis hate Iranians.
Did this balloon fiight in October 1992. There was only one balloon flying back then. The pilot was from Webster Groves, Missouri. The local folks hoped the balloon would land in their farm field so they could receive some payment for the basket destroying their crop.
JDAaniels1 ~~ Egypt is not a third world country. Further, that phrase is not used anymore. We use Industrialized and non-industrialized countries. Egypt is an Industrialized country. Further, what people do not understand is that the gondolas on these balloons are larger. I live in Egypt and the U.S. The Hot Air Balloons in Luxor are the same that is used to fly over the pacific in San Diego/Del Mar. They are regulated and very safe. I am not a hot air balloon enthusiast, but have had many students and friends go on them and have been truly thrilled by the experience.
Carrying nineteen people! I'm guessing that all of the equipment would be larger and heaver duty than than we are used to seeing. Much larger burners, and fuel storage too. I wonder if there are any governing bodies like the FAA, overseeing safety and inspection in Egypt. Given the sorry state that the country is in, I doubt it. There can not be a worse way to die.
Ummmm.....but what if there were a Bengal Tiger on board? It could be worse. Just kidding, I think I will scratch bucket list #3 and exchange it for the Japanese twins.
Apr 2009, another Egyptian 'Hot Air' balloon had a incident that injured 13+passengers. The gondola had become detached from the balloon...
They found that the 16+passenger max balloon had 24+passengers...
Jan 2012, A hot air balloon burst into flames in New Zealand, killing 11...
The New Zealand hot air balloon had drifted into power lines...
So what's your point? Did you just learn how to Google?
scales67,
If you read the up-dated article, it citied the SAME incident. But gave INCORRECT information...
Hilarious!
You found that funny? Go get some help. You sound sick in the head.
Handsome Jackass
Egypt may be offering discount tourist package including the balloon ride!!! I believe the discount was too much so they have to cut corners ( 21 persons in a balloon, new/unlicensed pilot...). The tourists got what they deserved.
V. Nugent..NO ONE deserves that. That's just cruel.
The balloon might have been unsafe. We don't know that yet. But that's the fault of the company, not the tourists. They did nothing wrong.
What the tourist did wrong, was they got on a unsafe ride and didn't know any better.
V.Nugent; So you think the tourists got what they deserved,right? So, how would you like to go for a balloon ride today? We will give you a special group rate ,today only. Not everyone is a balloon expert like you I guess. Shame,shame -shame on you.
So many places to go in the world, WHY go to a country in turmoil. Inviting trouble.
BTW I would not go in a hot air balloon if it came with free tickets to (insert event here) !
Cheese..I agree with you on not getting into a hot air balloon. I wouldn't either. '
That said, who knows where these people are from. They don't say. They could be Egyptians just looking to see another part of the country.
Maybe the sand looks different where they are from.
So, the political turmoil in Egypt made the balloon unsafe, eh? Is that your final answer?
If you had ever been to Egypt, you wouldn't ask why anyone would go there. I'd say that it's one of those places that everyone should visit, at least once. Amazing place.
EarlyOut, You are exactly right. However, encouraging these posters who never venture out, but who, nevertheless, make uneducated observations about anything they don't know, would not, if effective, do much for the view of Americans abroad. And since Americans (as distinguished from the U.S. government) are our only hope in that regard, it's probably better to simply encourage their staying home and watching reality tv and fox news.
Um, Janine. Try actually reading the article. It states where the tourist are from. Novel idea, right, actually reading the article?
We are sorry for your loss.
berma shave!
"...goes on fire..."
I wonder what that means; could it be that it means that the balloon caught fire and that NBC needs to hire someone who can actually talk??
Note to self: Don't go hot air ballooning in Egypt.
The baloon was no safe because the industry is not REGULATED in that country.
Death comes to us all,just in different ways at different times.
The people who died we just living their lives with an interest in ancient Egypt and it's culture.
They died doing something they chose to do.
Better that being killed in a meaningless war or murdered by a heartless government like in Syria.
I can think of no worse way to die regardless. You really think someone terrorized in Syria would opt to die this way instead of maybe by a bullet? Some of those poor charbroiled people were alive after hitting the ground. Every moment would have been an agonizing terror. Hopefully their brains shut down and they weren't fully aware in their last minutes.
I love how all the posters above are experts in ballooning.
I for one have been in many hot air balloons in my life. Normally when they were in New Mexico at the Hot air festivals . You can put that many people in a balloon if it is made for it. Normally not. But maybe they had one that could. Sometime things happen and people die. Just like driving a car, things happen. Sad that this happened .But ,if the right safety measures were not taken. This is what the out come will be.
I can't stop laughing...I know its tragic, but the Arabs...they are like a continuing episode of the Keystone Cops...absolutely f**king morons. It is no wonder the Israelis kick their butts. I think Islam is the problem, it makes retards our of otherwise normal people. Sad for the tourists, but then who in their right minds would go to a country in turmoil for a vacation? Must be illiterate Europeans or other Muslims. In which case what is all the fuss about? They kill more than that number of fellow Muslims each day over imagined slights to their honor or while emulatiing Moh'd.
Actually, people showing off their own plain stupidity is the leading cause of death the world over...
and you're still posting...
go figure....
Oh, so most of the dead were Asians. I guess they don't get the news in Asia, or they think Muslims love pagan infidels. Like I said, who in their right minds?
moslems especially have no love for pagans... you get 1 chance - convert or die. Jews and Christians are called "people of the book" and get a chance to convert or live as second class citizens.
This article makes me want to scratch "hot-air balloon ride" off my bucket-list:p
Don't ever drive a car.
Just because you can does not mean you should. If you pin $100 dollar bills to your body and walk down a dark alley you may do it because you legally can. Is it smart? No, you are tempting fate and that is exactly what these people did. IMHO they rolled the dice, they lost.
Surprisingly, you'd be safer doing that in Cairo than you would be doing that in Bettendorf, IA.
Well, sure. They don't use American money in Egypt.
Oh, Dan, you're so confused. The U.S. $100 bill is used in almost every country in the world, especially those that see lots of tourists. Everyone knows what it is, and what it's worth.
But you're much more likely to be robbed in most U.S. cities than you are in a place like Cairo.
Dan-451372 ~~ Egypt takes American Dollars, can do the exchange rate in their heads, and make the correct exchange and change right there. Further the ATM machines ask you if you want your money in L. E. (Egyptian Pounds), Euros, or Dollars.
Well it looks like they should outlaw hot air balloons from the united states governments point of view!!!
What a terrible way to die. I have no desire to go flying through the air in a basket with a gas filled nylon bomb above my head....No thanks. Prayers to those who lost their lives.
Wow! what a Horrible way to Die. R.I.P.
Twenty-one people?
The term hot air ballon means fire and anything could happen with that so for it to explode isn't surprising not at all.
I will just bet those people signed a waiver that if they killed or injured there is nothing the family members can do about their deaths or injuries.
I don't think a waiver was signed. How is anybody from another country going to sue somebody in Egypt. They would laugh in your face.
in south africa /namibia the balloon was run by a French person, and in top shape. They had 10 or 12 people in a basket that size not 24, look at the basket - where do 24 people stand?.
Um, perhaps baskets come in different sizes? Novel idea, right?