Two killed in hot air balloon crash

A French and Indian national were killed and 11 others suffered moderate to serious injuries when the hot air balloon in which they were on a tourist trip crashed as it was trying to make an emergency landing.
The incident took place at Nahel, near Suwaihan in Al Ain, on Sunday morning.
The police, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the embassies of India and France and the balloon operating company did not give out the names of the two killed in the accident. The 24-person capacity balloon had 14 people on board, including the captain.
“The pilot and 13 passengers took off early in light winds. But the wind picked up significantly and the pilot decided to make an emergency landing,” the BAE said in a statement.
‘‘Police and GCAA authorities are currently investigating the accident and BAE has suspended operations for the next few days pending the outcome of the investigation,’’ the statement said.
Alain Azouaou, the French Ambassador in Abu Dhabi, said the body of the French tourist, would be repatriated home for the funeral.
Indian Embassy officials said they would render support to the family of the Indian who died in the accident. ‘‘We understand the Indian who had died had come here on a tourist trip along with his family. The family members were also on board the balloon. We are told the body is being brought to Abu Dhabi from Al Ain tonight,’’ Indian Ambassador to the UAE M. K. Lokesh, said.
25/04/10 T. Ramavarman, Silvia Radan and Anwar Ahmad/Khaleej Times

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Categories: Foreign Apr 2010, Safety Apr 2010