Father and Son Die in Mallorca Plane Crash
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Agents of the Special group of Underwater Activities (GEAS) of the Civil Guard recovered the bodies of a father and his minor son on Sunday. The pair died Saturday night when the plane piloted by the father crashed into the waters of Soller, Mallorca. The reasons for the crash remain unknown.
The aircraft plunged into the sea approximately 100 meters from the coastline, at a depth of about 30 meters, near the Sóller lighthouse.This area is frequently used by recreational vessels. Sources confirmed the deceased are a 60-year-old American man and his 13-year-old son.
the father and son departed from the Binnisalem airfield around 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Videos circulating on social media, captured by residents and individuals on anchored boats, show the twin-engine plane performing stunts. These included high-altitude turns and vertical dives, nearly touching the sea’s surface. For reasons yet to be steadfast, the plane crashed into the water about two hours after the aerobatics began.
Mallorca Firefighters received notification of the accident at 8:52 p.m. Though, the 112 emergency service in the Balearic Islands had already received a report from an eyewitness shortly after 8:00 p.m. Following these reports, a notable search operation was launched, joined by maritime rescue teams, Sóller firefighters, and GEAS members.
At 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, GEAS specialists recovered the lifeless bodies of the father and son. The search operation had been ongoing throughout the morning. The bodies were transported to the port of Sóller and subsequently to the Forensic Anatomical Institute for autopsies. The Civil Guard is investigating the accident’s causes.
According to reports, the 60-year-old pilot was a former American military member residing in Germany. He possessed extensive experience flying F-18 and F-14 fighter jets from aircraft carriers. The deceased reportedly lived in Germany, where he worked as a commercial pilot, and spent time in Mallorca, where he owned a second residence. The aircraft, a Harmon Rocket Biplaza, was his property and capable of reaching speeds of 300 kilometers per hour.
Evergreen Insights
The Harmon Rocket is a homebuilt aircraft designed by American engineer and pilot Michael Harmon. It is known for its aerobatic capabilities and high performance. The crash highlights the inherent risks associated with aviation, particularly when performing complex maneuvers.
Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities, including boating and aviation.The Sóller area, with its picturesque coastline, is a common location for such pursuits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of aircraft was involved in the crash?
The aircraft was a Harmon Rocket Biplaza.
Where did the crash occur?
The crash occurred in the waters off the coast of Soller, Mallorca, near the Sóller lighthouse.
What were the circumstances leading up to the crash?
The plane was reportedly performing aerobatic maneuvers before it crashed into the sea.
Who were the victims?
The victims were a 60-year-old American man, the pilot, and his 13-year-old son.
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