Tragic Plane Crash in Peru Claims Lives of 13 Tourists
Plane Crash Near Nazca
Authorities examine the wreckage of the aircraft on Saturday. (Photo:PTI)
Bogota, Aug 2: A tragic incident occurred when a plane transporting European tourists to see the renowned Nazca Lines crashed in a field near Nazca, Peru, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals, according to local officials.
The municipal government of Nazca reported that the aircraft took off from Ica on Saturday and was operated by Aerodiana, a Peruvian airline.
Among the deceased were seven Italian nationals aged between 18 and 54, two Spaniards aged 52, and two Germans aged 77 and 78, as stated by Peru's Transportation Ministry.
The fatalities also included the pilot, Americo Salazar, and the co-pilot, Irenka Guanilo del Carpio, as confirmed in an official statement.
President Keiko Fujimori expressed her sorrow regarding the incident and mentioned that a "temporary suspension" of the airport is being contemplated, pending reports from the relevant ministries.
Peruvian officials have launched an investigation into the crash. Aerodiana has not yet provided a comment on the situation.
According to the airline's website, it has been offering scenic flights over the Nazca Lines for 14 years, utilizing Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft.
The Nazca Lines are a series of large geoglyphs etched into the desert by Peru's Indigenous peoples centuries ago. These designs depict various animals and can only be fully appreciated from the air or from viewing platforms.
(AP)