BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) – A tragic aviation accident occurred on Saturday near the Peruvian city of Nazca, resulting in the death of 13 individuals. The aircraft, carrying European tourists on a scenic flight to view the renowned Nazca Lines, crashed into a field shortly after takeoff.

According to the municipal government of Nazca, the plane was operated by Aerodiana, a Peruvian airline that has been providing flights over the Nazca Lines for 14 years. The aircraft, a Cessna Grand Caravan, had departed from the city of Ica before the fatal crash.

The Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a series of geoglyphs intricately carved into the desert landscape by Peru's Indigenous people centuries ago. These massive figures represent various animals and can only be fully appreciated from the air or designated viewing platforms, making them a popular destination for tourists seeking aerial views.

Among the victims of this tragic incident were seven Italian tourists, whose ages ranged from 18 to 54. Additionally, two Spanish tourists, both aged 52, and two German citizens aged 77 and 78, lost their lives in the crash. The local Transportation Ministry confirmed that the pilot, Américo Salazar, and the co-pilot, Irenka Guanilo del Carpio, were also among the fatalities.

In the wake of the crash, Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori expressed her condolences and regret regarding the accident. She announced that the possibility of a “temporary suspension” of airport operations was being considered, although this decision remains pending further reports from relevant government ministries.

Peruvian authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Specific details about the potential causes of the incident have not been disclosed, and representatives from Aerodiana have not yet provided comments to the media regarding the tragic event.