Dubai Authorities Address Hot Air Balloon Incident, Confirm No Fatalities
Dubai Police clarify the circumstances surrounding a hot air balloon mishap that resulted in injuries, refuting misleading reports of fatalities.
On March 23, a hot air balloon incident in Dubai resulted in injuries to several passengers, as confirmed by local sources.
The Dubai Police have categorically denied reports from various media outlets claiming there were fatalities from the incident.
A spokesperson for the police stated that these reports are 'false and misleading'.
The incident involved a hot air balloon carrying tourists, including a Russian mother and daughter, who experienced a challenging landing due to sudden weather changes.
Eyewitness footage circulating on social media shows the balloon ascending over the Dubai desert before an abrupt descent.
Police reports indicate that the injuries sustained by the balloon's occupants ranged from minor to moderate, with all individuals receiving prompt medical care.
It has been reported that the passengers comprised individuals of various nationalities.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the balloon experienced a 'hard landing', attributed to deteriorating weather conditions as it approached the ground.
A tour operator stated that four tourists were aboard the balloon during the flight, indicating that the strong winds contributed to the difficult landing.
Currently, a comprehensive official investigation is underway to ascertain the precise factors leading to the incident.
In light of the situation, Dubai Police have urged the public and the media to refrain from disseminating unverified information and to rely solely on official communications to avoid unnecessary alarm and misinformation.
Hot air ballooning has become a popular attraction in Dubai, inviting tourists to partake in early morning rides that offer scenic views of the desert landscape as the sun rises.