Witnesses watched in disbelief as a twin-engine Piper PA-31T1 Cheyenne aircraft failed to gain altitude shortly after takeoff on Wednesday morning. Moments later, it came down near the runway, sparking an immediate response from emergency services.
According to the National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC), the aircraft, registered as YV1443, took off around 09:52 local time before suffering a critical malfunction during its initial climb. Fire and rescue crews stationed at the airport rushed to the site within seconds, working swiftly to control the fire and secure the area.
Authorities later confirmed that the two crew members on board did not survive the crash. Their identities have not yet been publicly released, pending official notification of their families. INAC officials expressed their condolences and assured that the Civil Aviation Accident Investigation Board (JIAAC) has been activated to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
Preliminary reports suggest that weather conditions were stable at the time of the accident, and the aircraft had undergone standard maintenance inspections. Investigators will review air traffic control communications, engine data, and flight records as part of a full inquiry.
Local residents reported hearing the sound of the aircraft’s engines fluctuating before it descended, while others nearby described seeing airport fire trucks rushing toward the smoke within minutes. Thanks to the rapid response, the fire was contained quickly, preventing further damage or injuries on the ground.
This heartbreaking event in Paramillo Airport in San Cristóbal, Venezuela,has reignited discussions on aviation safety and maintenance standards across regional airports. Aviation experts have praised the swift actions of the emergency teams, emphasizing how their efforts prevented an even greater disaster.
As the nation mourns the loss of the two aviators, investigators remain focused on uncovering what went wrong — hoping their findings will help improve safety measures for future flights.
Shocking video shows the moment two people were killed when their Piper PA-31T1 Cheyenne crashed on take-off from Paramillo Airport in San Cristóbal, the capital of the Táchira state of Venezuela.
— Breaking Aviation News & Videos (@aviationbrk) October 22, 2025
In a statement the National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC) said, "Today… pic.twitter.com/gjn3RwfxOT
Official Statement from INAC
“Today, Wednesday at 09:52 hours, an aircraft with registration YV1443, taking off from Paramillo Airport in Táchira state, fell to the ground during the takeoff phase. The corresponding protocols were immediately activated by Aeronautical Firefighters to attend to the accident. Unfortunately, both crew members on board lost their lives. The Civil Aviation Accident Investigation Board has been activated to determine the causes,” the agency’s statement read.
Our thoughts are with the families and colleagues of those affected by this tragedy.