In a heart-stopping incident that sent shockwaves through a peaceful country fair, a hot air balloon carrying eight people executed a dramatic emergency landing in Wiltshire on Sunday afternoon. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and relief as the balloon descended rapidly onto the showground.
Emergency Services Scramble to Scene
Wiltshire Police and South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust confirmed they were alerted to the incident at approximately 4:15 PM. Multiple emergency vehicles, including paramedics and fire crews, rushed to the Wiltshire Country Fair near Devizes following reports of a balloon making a forced landing.
An eyewitness, capturing the terrifying moments on video, reported: "We heard a loud noise and saw the balloon coming down much faster than normal. It was clear something had gone wrong."
Miraculous Escape for All Onboard
Despite the violent nature of the landing, all eight passengers aboard the balloon escaped serious injury. Paramedics conducted immediate assessments at the scene, with two individuals receiving precautionary treatment for minor injuries and shock.
"The pilot did an incredible job managing the situation," one fair attendee remarked. "It could have been so much worse given how quickly they came down."
Investigation Launched Into Cause
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has been notified and is expected to launch a full investigation into the circumstances leading to the emergency landing. Early speculation suggests possible wind shear or technical issues may have contributed to the incident.
The balloon, which had been providing scenic rides over the Wiltshire countryside, became the centre of attention as fairground activities came to an abrupt halt during the emergency response.
Event Continues Amid Safety Review
Organisers of the Wiltshire Country Fair have confirmed that while the balloon rides remain suspended pending investigation, other fair activities continue with enhanced safety monitoring. The incident has raised questions about safety protocols for aerial activities at public events across the UK.
This dramatic event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with hot air ballooning, even during what should be leisurely countryside excursions.
