A tragic incident unfolded when a pilot instructor reportedly leaped from an aircraft, forcing a trainee to take over the controls and land the plane. The pilot, identified as Leandro Andrés Bertazzo, 42, allegedly exited the aircraft mid-air over Toledo, located south of Córdoba in Argentina. Police are currently conducting an investigation into the incident.
During a training flight with a 22-year-old female student, the pilot instructed her to continue flying and then proceeded to jump from the aircraft. The student, identified as Rosario, managed to safely land the Cessna C-150 light aircraft on her own accord after the pilot’s sudden departure.
Witnesses stated that before his leap, Leandro calmly communicated instructions to the student, removed his equipment, and exited the aircraft from an altitude of approximately 820 feet (250 meters). Following the incident, the student promptly radioed for assistance, followed emergency protocols, and successfully landed the plane without any damage.
The school director, Eduardo Álvarez, praised the student for her composed response to the situation and described her as acting with great composure despite the shock. Search efforts swiftly located the pilot’s body in a nearby field, confirming his tragic demise.
Colleagues of the pilot expressed shock and disbelief at the incident, noting that he had exhibited no signs of distress earlier in the day. Leandro, who had been with the Flying Parrot Flight School for four years, was described as a cheerful and professional individual with no apparent issues.
Eduardo mentioned that Leandro had been seeking a position with a major airline, indicating potential aspirations for his career. The Federal Justice of Córdoba is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has deeply affected the local aviation community.
While officials are examining all angles of the case, witness testimonies suggest that the pilot’s actions were deliberate. The aviation community is reeling from the tragedy as investigations continue to unfold.