VENEZUELA — A tragic plane crash at Paramillo Airport has left two pilots dead after their private aircraft flipped over and exploded during takeoff, sending a massive fireball into the sky.

Shocking footage circulating online shows the Piper PA-31T1 Cheyenne I losing control as it gained speed down the runway. Moments later, the plane tipped forward, flipped upside down, and erupted into flames, engulfing the tarmac in thick black smoke.

Authorities confirmed that both pilots were killed instantly in the fiery crash. No passengers were on board.

Early reports suggest the disaster may have been caused by a tire explosion during takeoff, though officials have not ruled out mechanical failure or pilot error. The aircraft was reportedly on a short domestic flight when the incident occurred.

Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to extinguish the fire, but the wreckage was almost completely destroyed. Local aviation authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Witnesses described the moment as “unreal,” saying the aircraft appeared to struggle for control seconds before the explosion.

The tragedy has renewed discussions about aviation safety standards and maintenance oversight in Venezuela’s smaller regional airports, where infrastructure issues and limited resources have been ongoing concerns.