Bombardier Challenger 300 Crashes Near Buenos Aires, Resulting in Two Fatalities

Bombardier Challenger 300 Crashes Near Buenos Aires, Resulting in Two Fatalities

San Fernando, Argentina, December 18, 2024 – 

A Bombardier Challenger 300 private jet, registered as LV-GOK, crashed near San Fernando International Airport (FDO) on December 18, 2024, resulting in the deaths of both pilots on board. 

The aircraft had departed from Punta del Este International Airport (PDP) in Uruguay at approximately 12:45 local time and arrived at San Fernando Airport around 13:19. Upon landing, the jet was reportedly unable to stop within the runway's distance, leading it to overrun the runway, breach the airport's perimeter fence, and collide with nearby residential structures. 

Eyewitnesses captured footage showing the aircraft veering off the runway, followed by a significant explosion and plumes of black smoke. Emergency responders promptly arrived at the scene, extinguishing the flames and evacuating residents from the affected homes. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the local populace. 

The pilots, identified as 35-year-old Agustín Orforte and 44-year-old Martín Fernández Loza, tragically lost their lives in the crash. No passengers were on board at the time of the incident. 

The aircraft was owned by the family of Jorge Brito, owner of Banco Macro and president of the River Plate football club. 

The Argentine Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Bombardier has expressed its condolences and pledged full cooperation with the investigative authorities. 

This tragic event underscores the critical importance of stringent safety measures and thorough investigations to prevent future occurrences.