Egypt suspends hot air ballooning in Luxor pending inquiry into accident

Ahram Online , Monday 18 Jul 2022

Ministry of Civil Aviation ordered the suspension of hot air balloon activities in Luxor on Monday pending investigation into the causes of a hot a balloon accident in which two tourists were slightly injured earlier today.

File photo: Ballooning over Luxor, Egypt. AP
File photo: Ballooning over Luxor, Egypt. AP

 

According a ministry statement, a hot air balloon carrying 28 people drifted into the airspace of another balloon at an altitude of 60 metres and a speed of seven knots, which led to tears in the first balloon.

The ministry explained that the balloon managed to land safely.

Two of the passengers were slightly injured and promptly transferred to a nearby hospital to receive treatment, the statement read.

A committee from the Civil Aviation Authority is conducting the investigation.

Hot air ballooning over Luxor is a popular touristic activity to enjoy the panoramic view of ancient Egyptian temples and green agricultural fields.

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