It was a twin-engine ATR-72 passenger plane belonging to the Voepass company that left Cascavel (PR) for Guarulhos (SP).
In the late afternoon of Friday, August 9, 2024, the tranquility of the city of Vinhedo, in the interior of São Paulo, was abruptly interrupted by a tragic event: the crash of a passenger plane. The impact and the black smoke that rose into the sky left an indelible mark on the memory of the local community.
The aircraft involved was a twin-engine passenger ATR-72, which had departed from Cascavel, in Paraná, bound for Guarulhos, in São Paulo. The flight, which was supposed to be routine, turned into a tragedy that mobilized rescue teams, firefighters and hospitals in the region.
Initial reports indicate that the accident occurred in the Capela neighborhood, near the city of Campinas. The aircraft, which held up to 68 passengers, crashed in a residential area, raising immediate concerns about injuries and casualties.
The authorities are investigating the causes of the accident. Meanwhile, relatives and friends of those on board are waiting for distressing news. The community is coming together in solidarity, offering support and prayers to the victims and their loved ones.
The Fire Department and Civil Defense were quickly on the scene, searching for survivors and controlling the damage. Hospitals in Vinhedo and Valinhos were mobilized to receive possible injuries, while rescue teams combed through the wreckage in search of answers.
The ATR-72: An Icon of Regional Aviation
The ATR-72 is a medium-sized twin-engine turboprop aircraft developed and produced by Avions de Transport Régional (ATR), a French-Italian joint venture. Let’s explore the details of this robust and versatile aircraft:
- Origins and Development:
During the 1980s, ATR sought to create a larger aircraft with greater capacity than its previous products. The ATR-72 was directly developed from the ATR-42, sharing many characteristics with it.
The main difference between the two models was in the increased seating capacity: the ATR-72 could accommodate up to 78 passengers. - Main features:
Turboprop: The ATR-72 is equipped with two turboprop engines, providing efficiency and reliability.
Short Range: Ideal for regional and short-haul flights.
Versatility: In addition to passenger transportation, the ATR-72 is also used as a corporate transport, cargo aircraft and maritime patrol aircraft. - History and success:
The first prototype flew in 1988, and the aircraft entered service in 1989 with the Finnish airline Finnair. To this day, the ATR-72 remains a popular choice for regional and short-haul flights.