A plane crash in the Brazilian Amazon, amid challenging weather conditions on Saturday, resulted in the death of 14 people.
The small propeller aircraft was concluding its 400km journey from Manaus, Amazonas state’s capital, to the distant jungle town of Barcelos when the tragedy occurred.
Authorities confirmed the demise of all individuals onboard, comprising 12 passengers and two crew members. An inquiry into the crash’s cause is currently underway.
Amazonas state’s security secretary, Vinicius Almeida, conveyed initial insights indicating the plane might have overshot the runway during its descent into Barcelos due to intense rainfall and reduced visibility.
The aircraft involved was identified as an EMB-110, a twin-engine turboprop, produced by the Brazilian company Embraer, as per G1, a Brazilian news platform. Manaus Aerotáxi, the plane’s owner, stated that the plane and crew had fulfilled all prerequisites for operation.
Amazonas Governor Wilson Lima remarked on “X” post-crash, “Our teams have been present at the site since the incident to offer essential assistance. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families and loved ones.”
Barcelos Mayor, Edson de Paula Rodrigues Mendes, informed CNN that a local game fishing businessman had chartered the plane.
He added that the passengers, who hailed from different Brazilian regions, shared an interest in the sport. The officials have announced plans to transport the deceased to Manaus for official identification.
Barcelos, in proximity to various national parks, is a sought-after tourist hotspot.
September marks the onset of Amazonas’ prime fishing season, renowned for its ornamental fish varieties, notably the tucunaré or peacock bass.
