Bombardier Aircraft Crashes Near Buenos Aires, Two Dead
A private Bombardier Challenger 300 aircraft crashed into houses near San Fernando International Airport (FDO) in Buenos Aires on December 18, 2024, after veering off the runway during landing. The crash resulted in a massive explosion, killing both individuals onboard but leaving no fatalities on the ground.
The aircraft, registered LV-GOK, took off from Punta del Este International Airport (PDP) at 12:45 local time and arrived at FDO 34 minutes later at 13:19. However, it was unable to stop within the runway’s standard distance. The aircraft lost control, veered off course, and crashed into nearby buildings located just beyond the airport’s perimeter.
According to the Airport Security Police, “An aircraft registered LV-GOK continued on during landing and went over the perimeter fence of San Fernando International Airport, crashing into neighboring homes.” The crash triggered a large explosion, which was captured on video by nearby witnesses. The footage shows the aircraft veering off the runway and a large plume of black smoke rising from the site moments after the impact.
The two people onboard, pilot Martín Fernández Loza and co-pilot Agustín Orforte, were killed in the crash. Their remains were found in the burning wreckage of the aircraft. The aircraft is owned by the family of the president of the River Plate soccer club, as confirmed by infobae.
Fortunately, there were no fatalities on the ground, although the crash caused significant damage. Three homes were affected, but the damage was limited to the exteriors with no structural harm reported. In addition, three parked cars were set on fire due to the explosion caused by the crash. Local authorities promptly evacuated the residents of the affected homes to ensure their safety.
San Fernando International Airport is located about two kilometers southwest of San Fernando, a northwestern suburb of Buenos Aires, and serves as a smaller regional airport, handling domestic and some international flights. The area surrounding the airport consists primarily of residential neighborhoods, which made the crash particularly dangerous.
The crash has raised concerns about aircraft safety and runway conditions at San Fernando International Airport. While the cause of the crash is still under investigation, the authorities have confirmed that an inquiry has been launched to determine what went wrong during the landing. The investigation will likely focus on whether mechanical failure, human error, or other factors contributed to the aircraft’s inability to stop within the runway.
As of now, no additional details have been released regarding the specific cause of the crash, but authorities are working to recover the flight data recorders to assist in the investigation. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, especially as the aircraft is linked to a high-profile figure in the sports world.
The aviation industry is closely monitoring the investigation, as such incidents raise important questions about aircraft safety and the handling of private flights, particularly in populated areas near airports.
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