A 22-year-old student pilot safely landed a Cessna C150 alone after her instructor, Leandro Bertazzo, 42, jumped from the cockpit mid-flight over Toledo, Argentina, on July 4. The student, whose name has not been released, reported that Bertazzo opened the window and jumped, leaving her to land the aircraft unaided at Coronel Olmedo Airport in Cordoba. Bertazzo's body was found in a nearby field 20 minutes later.
Student's Account of the Incident
The student stated that she watched Bertazzo plunge to his death, initially believing he had deployed a parachute but soon realizing he had not. Despite limited flying experience, she raised the alarm and landed the plane safely. Eduardo Alvarez, director of Flying Parrot Cordoba flight school, said she told him Bertazzo 'jumped' after removing his headphones, arranging his belongings, unbuckling his seatbelt, opening the door, and jumping out.
Professionalism Under Pressure
Alvarez praised the student's actions, calling her 'very clear, decisive, mature and professional.' He noted she had a pilot's license but few flying hours. 'She was very shaken, but with complete professionalism she flew the plane to the airfield and made a perfect landing,' he said. Bertazzo reportedly told her during the flight: 'You know what to do, keep moving forward.'
Investigation and Background
An investigation is ongoing, with officials considering mechanical failure as one possibility. The aircraft and flight school documentation are being studied. Local reports indicate Bertazzo had undergone neuropsychiatric treatment, known only to close family. Alvarez described him as 'always smiling,' calling his death 'completely out of the blue.'
