A Voepass Airlines ATR-72 aircraft en route from Cascavel to Guarulhos crashed in a residential area of Vinhedo, a town just north of São Paulo, Brazil. The crash, which occurred on Friday, Aug. 9, claimed the lives of all 58 passengers and 4 crew members on board.
Eyewitnesses reported that the plane began to spin uncontrollably before plunging vertically into the neighborhood below. The aircraft, which was nearing the end of its flight, crashed into the densely populated area, causing immediate devastation.
The Brazilian Air Force quickly dispatched a support team to the crash site, while local firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze that engulfed the wreckage. Images and videos shared on social media show the aircraft engulfed in flames, with thick smoke billowing into the sky.
In the aftermath of the crash, Voepass Airlines confirmed that the plane was carrying 62 people, with no survivors. The airline expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of life and pledged full cooperation with the authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Brazilian aviation authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Joaquim Silva e Luna, head of Brazil’s Civil Aviation Authority, stated, “Our priority is to understand what happened and to ensure the safety of future flights.”
ATR, the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer, stated, “ATR has been informed that an accident occurred in Vinhedo, Brazil involving an ATR 72-500. Our first thoughts are with all the individuals affected by this event. The ATR specialists are fully engaged to support both the investigation and the customer,”.
The crash site in Vinhedo is a residential area, and while no ground casualties have been reported, the local community is reeling from the shock. Emergency services have cordoned off the area, and residents have been evacuated as a precaution.
Maria Santos, a resident living close to the crash site, shared her horror: “I heard a loud noise, and when I looked out, I saw the plane coming down. It’s heartbreaking; we’re all in shock.”
As Brazil comes to terms with this tragedy, the thoughts and prayers of many are with the families and friends of those who perished in this devastating crash.
