Brazil formally accuses 16 people over 2024 Voepass deadly plane crash

Brazil's federal police have formally accused 16 current and former Voepass employees in connection with the August 2024 plane crash that killed 62 people. The crash occurred outside Sao Paulo when an ATR 72-500 aircraft plummeted to the ground. Investigators allege malpractice, omission, and negligence by the company, including the irregular clearance of the plane for departure despite known de-icing system failures on prior flights that day. The aircraft's data recorders indicated repeated de-icing system malfunctions. Voepass owner and president Jose Luiz Felicio Filho is among those accused, facing potential charges for endangering air traffic safety, which could result in up to 12 years in prison. Prosecutors will decide on formal charges at a later date.

Brazil's federal police have formally accused 16 current and former Voepass employees in connection with the August 9, 2024, plane crash that killed all 62 people on board. The investigation cited alleged malpractice, omission, and negligence by the airline, including the owner and president, José Luiz Felicio Filho. The ATR 72-500 aircraft, en route to Guarulhos airport, crashed in Vinhedo, Sao Paulo, after plummeting 13,000 feet. Investigators found the de-icing system repeatedly failed, and the aircraft was cleared for departure into severe icing conditions despite prior system failures. These findings, released after a two-year investigation, suggest organizational failures and improper maintenance contributed to the disaster. Prosecutors will now decide whether to press charges.