Hot Air Balloon Crash in Turkey’s Cappadocia: 1 Dead, 31 Injured in Wind-Driven Tragedy скачать в хорошем качестве

Hot Air Balloon Crash in Turkey’s Cappadocia: 1 Dead, 31 Injured in Wind-Driven Tragedy

A tragic accident occurred on Sunday when two hot air balloons departing from the scenic Ihlara Valley in Aksaray in the Turkish region of Cappadocia were forced to make emergency landings due to sudden and severe wind conditions. One pilot died and 31 people, including several foreign tourists, were injured in the accident. According to local authorities, the pilots of both balloons decided to initiate early landings after detecting a sudden shift in weather. One balloon, attempting to land near the valley, was caught in strong winds that caused the basket to drag along the ground. During the landing, the pilot — identified as 39-year-old Hüseyin Turk — became entangled in a rope, fell from the basket, and was fatally injured after being trapped beneath the balloon. Nineteen foreign tourists aboard the same balloon sustained various injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. A second balloon, which was flying near the village of Belisirma in Güzelyurt district, also experienced a hard landing due to turbulent wind conditions. Twelve foreign tourists aboard that balloon were lightly injured. Emergency teams, including numerous gendarmerie and medical personnel, were dispatched to the scene immediately. In total, 31 people were hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor to moderate. An official investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding both incidents. The Ihlara Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and historical significance, is a popular destination for hot air balloon tourism in the Cappadocia region, attracting thousands of visitors each year.