VINHEDO (August 10) — A passenger plane crashed into a gated residential community in Vinhedo, São Paulo state, Brazil, on Friday, resulting in the deaths of all 61 individuals on board. The aircraft, an ATR 72 twin-engine turboprop operated by Voepass, was en route to São Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport when the accident occurred.
The crash happened around 80 kilometers northwest of São Paulo city. While officials confirmed all 61 people aboard, including 57 passengers and 4 crew members, were killed, there were no reports of casualties among local residents. Witnesses indicated that there were no victims on the ground.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva declared three days of mourning and urged the public to observe a moment of silence. The state’s emergency services, including firefighters and military police, responded swiftly, and the plane’s black box has been recovered.
Preliminary reports suggest potential icing conditions might have contributed to the crash, though the investigation is ongoing. Brazilian aviation experts noted that while icing was forecasted, it was within acceptable levels for the aircraft. The Federal Police and Brazil’s air force are leading the investigation, with support from the plane’s manufacturer, ATR.
The crash is the deadliest aviation accident since January 2023. Previous accidents involving the ATR 72 model have raised concerns about its safety, though it is certified to operate in severe weather conditions.
Authorities are working to identify the victims, many of whom were reportedly doctors from Paraná state. The Federal Police have called for any medical, X-ray, and dental records to assist in the identification process.
