Virgin balloon horror as man jumps out of basket during UK sightseeing tour

A group of sightseers on a hot air balloon experience have been left horrified after one of the people on their tour jumped out of the basket without warning.

The balloon, operated by Virgin Balloons, has been captured in images hovering above the tree line, as passengers look down to try and spot the man who fell to his death.

Emergency services were called by the crew of the balloon immediately after the incident, triggering a major response from police and paramedics as they rushed to Newpound Common, in Wisborough Green, West Sussex, at around 9.20am on Friday.

The passenger is said to have climbed onto the rim of the basket while the balloon was floating “at height”, before jumping and landing in a nearby field.

The Sun reports that police confirmed the balloon basket was holding 16 people after it took off, including the 33-year-old Watford man, who had paid for his trip.

A search by Sussex Police using dogs and drones was initiated before police located the man’s body.

“This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go to the family of the man and everyone on the flight”, Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating said.

“We are offering them specialist support at this time.

“The man’s death is not being treated as suspicious and we are completing an investigation on behalf of the coroner.”

“Police were called to a report of a man having fallen from a hot air balloon and following an extensive search the body of a man was sadly found in a field.

“The search was carried out by neighbourhood officers, police drones, search officers and dogs.

“Police have yet to formerly identify the man.

Virgin Balloons said in a statement the balloon had been travelling from Billingshurst to Dunsfold and they are working with authorities conducting the investigation.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a passenger incident occurred on Friday morning,” the statement said.

“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the individual’s family at this incredibly difficult time.

“We are also deeply mindful of the experience of all passengers involved, and their wellbeing and peace of mind remain a priority.

“We kindly ask that privacy is respected, as the welfare and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern.

“We are working closely with, and fully supporting, the relevant authorities as they carry out their investigation.”

The governing body for ballooning in the UK said that the incident has been captured on the in-flight video system.

“CBA was informed this morning of a serious incident on a commercial passenger flight today,” said Jon Rudoni, Chairman at the Commercial Ballooning Association, via a statement.

“It would appear that a passenger took their own life by climbing out the basket whilst at height.

“The entire event has been captured on the flight video and submitted to the police.

“Clearly, our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of the deceased.

“We also extends our support to the pilot, crew and other passengers concerned.”

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

If you or someone you know needs help, phone SANE Australia Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).