HEART-STOPPING footage has emerged of a hot air balloon pilot’s incredible survival after crashing into a power line in the US.

Passer-by Brian Karrick filmed the incident during the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest on Sunday morning.

The video shows the balloon flying off-course before becoming impaled on a power line. The crash gives off a deafening boom and sparks an explosion which spread fire to the basket.

Despite the burned-out hole in the balloon envelope, the pilot manages to distance the balloon from the power line, while a man can be heard desperately shouting at people to get back.

“Ron are you ok?” the same man asks the pilot, whose reply can barely be heard.

The balloon then descends into nearby water where the pilot can receive help.

Howell Fire Chief Andy Pless told US news sources that the pilot was, “fine, just wet”.

Karrick who is understandably no longer a fan of the flying balloons said the ordeal was terrifying.

“The sound of a transformer blowing is something you will never forget,” Karrick said. “It was soul-shaking. It was so loud.

“I have seen enough balloons for the rest of my life.”

It was reported to be the only hot air balloon crash in the 34-year history of the Michigan festival.