In brief
A tourist small airplane crashed over the UNESCO‑listed Nazca Lines in Peru on 1 August 2026. The 13 victims, 11 tourists from Germany, Spain and Italy and two pilots, were killed. The aircraft, a Cessna Caravan C‑208, departed from Pisco airport and exploded on approach to the Nazca region. Local officials say the cause is still under investigation and the airline Aerodiana will review its schedule. This is the third fatal crash over the lines in the past decade.
Crash Details
On 1 August 2026 at 13:00 local time a Cessna Caravan C‑208 carrying 13 passengers and crew went down over the Nazca Lines, a UNESCO‑designated archaeological site in southern Peru. All 13 aboard—11 tourists, two pilots—were killed. The aircraft departed from Pisco airport and crashed near Pueblo Viejo.
Victims
- German tourists: 2
- Spanish tourists: 2
- Italian tourists: 7
- Pilots: 2
Investigation & Response
Police Major Jorge Andrade stated no survivors were found and four bodies had been recovered at the time of reporting. The municipal office of Nasca offered condolences, and the airline Aerodiana said it would "assess its flight schedule in line with authorities" as the investigation continues. Nothing has yet been confirmed as the cause of the crash.
Historical Context
The Nazca Lines have been the site of several aviation accidents involving tourist flights: a 2022 crash killed seven, and a 2010 crash killed six. The area remains a popular viewpoint for small aircraft flying over the extensive desert geoglyphs.
Local authorities urge caution as investigations proceed, while the airline signals potential schedule adjustments pending safety clearance.
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