Two tourists have been killed after two hot air balloons collided in Turkey.

More than 20 people are also believed to have been injured in the accident, which happened in Cappadocia, a popular tourist destination due to its spectacular volcanic rock formations.

According to local reports, one ascending balloon was torn open as it hit the basket of another.

It then plunged to earth, witnesses said.

Cappadocia, in central Anatolia, is famed for its ‘fairy chimney’ volcanic cones, subterranean cities carved out of soft stone and early Christian churches.

Ballooning has become a popular tourist business in the region over the past decade.

However, questions may now be asked if the activity has become too popular to be conducted safely.