A somber mood now hangs over the Beja Air Show following a mid-air collision between two aircraft involved in an aerobatic display. The incident, which occurred on Sunday afternoon, resulted in the death of one pilot and a forced landing by the other.

Both aircraft belonged to the Yakstars, a well-known Spanish-Portuguese aerobatic team. The Yakstars are known for their thrilling routines featuring six Yak-52 warbirds, performing tight formations, intricate maneuvers, and high-speed passes.

Details about the cause of the collision are still emerging. However, witnesses reported that the two Yak-52s, Soviet-era trainer aircraft first flown in 1976, collided during their aerial performance. One aircraft tragically went down, resulting in the pilot’s death. The other pilot managed to regain control and make a safe emergency landing.

The Beja Air Show has been understandably interrupted following this incident. Officials are currently investigating the cause of the collision. This is a developing story, and further details will be reported as they become available.

• AirLive
• Featured Image by Ana Maria Rodrigues