During an air show held in Beja, Portugal, a tragic accident unfolded as two small planes collided midair, resulting in the death of one pilot and injuring another. The incident occurred during a performance by the YAK STARS aerobatic patrol, highlighting the risks associated with such aerial displays.
The Portuguese Air Force (PAF), responsible for the event, confirmed the unfortunate event, expressing regret over the loss. The PAF statement reported that at 4:05 pm (1505 GMT), two planes were involved in the accident during an aerial demonstration involving six aircraft. The deceased pilot, a Spanish national, was flying one of the aircraft involved in the collision. The injured pilot, of Portuguese nationality, sustained minor injuries and received immediate medical attention before being taken to Beja Hospital.
A video captured by a spectator and shared on social media showed the moment of impact, with one plane ascending and appearing to make contact with another before crashing to the ground in a cloud of smoke. The incident occurred at Beja Air Base, located 180 km (110 miles) south of Lisbon, adding to the shock and sorrow of the event.
Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expressed sadness over the accident, remarking that what was meant to be a moment of leisure and shared enjoyment turned into a moment of pain. Defence Minister Nuno Melo described it as a “tragic accident” and announced an investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision.
The Air Force clarified that one plane crashed outside the airbase’s perimeter, while the other managed to land safely on the airport tarmac. Fortunately, no spectators were harmed during the incident.
The air show, which featured approximately 30 European aerobatic groups, including the “Yak Stars,” was abruptly halted following the accident. The organisers suspended the two-day affair, extending their deepest condolences to the family of the deceased pilot.
Sources By Agencies
