Pilot reported trouble moments after take-off as aircraft struck residential block; three injured, no casualties on the ground

A small aircraft has crashed into a residential building in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, just minutes after take-off, leaving two people dead and three others seriously injured.

The aircraft, an EMB-721C manufactured in 1979, departed from Pampulha Airport carrying five occupants. Shortly after take-off, the pilot reported technical difficulties, prompting concern from air traffic control.

Witnesses reported seeing the plane flying unusually low and circling the area before it ultimately lost altitude and slammed into a multi-storey residential building.

According to emergency responders, the aircraft struck the structure between the third and fourth floors, entering through a stairwell. Officials noted that this point of impact may have prevented a more catastrophic outcome, as several nearby apartments were occupied at the time.

The pilot and co-pilot died in the crash, while the three remaining passengers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to hospital.

Residents described hearing a thunderous crash, followed by falling debris and a strong smell of fuel that spread through the building moments after impact.

Brazil’s aviation accident investigation authority, iCENIPA, has launched a full inquiry to determine the cause of the crash.