26 Feb
2013

ABTA's statement on hot air balloon trip incident in Egypt.

Updated at 13.30

It has now been confirmed that one of the two guests injured in the incident has since passed away. Our thoughts are with the families at this time. The Foreign Office will be in contact with the families of those affected.

Posted at 12.00

ABTA is aware that there have been a number of injuries and fatalities including four British nationals following an incident involving a hot air balloon trip in Luxor Egypt, operated by a local company  Skycruise. 

We understand that 21 people were on board the flight (including the pilot) and there have been 18 fatalities. Thomas Cook UK & Ireland have confirmed that two of their guests are in local hospitals, but tragically two of their guests have died in the incident. The Foreign Office will be in contact with the families of those affected.

ABTA is working closely with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the authorities in Egypt and can confirm the Egyptian authorities have now suspended all balloon excursions in Luxor pending an investigation of the incident.