Feb 12 • 07:00 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

VIDEO: Man who invaded airport and attempted to take off a helicopter in MG spent more than 1 hour in the aircraft's cabin

A man attempted to hijack a helicopter at Caxambu airport in MG, Brazil, spending over an hour in the cockpit before a failed takeoff led to his arrest.

In a bizarre incident at Caxambu Airport in Minas Gerais, Brazil, a man named Luiz Gustavo Fonseca Aires invaded the premises and attempted to take off in a helicopter. Surveillance footage released shows that he spent about an hour inside the cockpit before making a failed attempt at takeoff, resulting in the helicopter crashing on the ground in the airport's parking area. Thankfully, no one was injured during this unusual escapade.

The invasion occurred late at night on Sunday, when the suspect cut through the airport's security fence at approximately 11:08 PM and accessed the restricted area. He entered the helicopter and remained inside until around 12:17 AM, when he initiated the aircraft's controls in an ill-fated attempt to take off. The helicopter crash-caused no injuries, but the incident raised security questions about access to airports and protections against unauthorized entry.

After the failed takeoff and subsequent crash, the suspect fled the scene but was later apprehended by the police. According to reports, he claimed he wanted to 'test' the helicopter. As authorities continued their investigation, they found evidence in the hangar, including lit flashlights, further indicating his intentions during the invasion. This event has become a topic of discussion regarding airport security protocols in Brazil.

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