Witnesses watched in shock as a twin-engine Piper Cheyenne (YV1443) struggled to lift off from Paramillo Airport in San Cristóbal, Venezuela, before crashing moments after takeoff on Wednesday morning.
Emergency crews rushed in within seconds, quickly extinguishing the flames, but both crew members on board lost their lives. Their names have not yet been released.
Authorities said the plane took off around 9:52 a.m. and appeared to suffer a critical malfunction during its initial climb. Weather was clear, and the aircraft had recently passed maintenance checks.
Investigators are now examining flight data and engine records to determine what went wrong. The tragedy has renewed concern over aviation safety in Venezuela, though officials praised rescue teams for their swift and courageous response.
