Brazil’s aviation regulator, ANAC, has suspended operations of regional airline Voepass, citing serious safety concerns. The decision comes approximately seven months after a devastating crash near São Paulo killed all 62 people on board, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters of 2024.
The suspension is another major blow to Voepass, which was already facing financial struggles. Just last month, the airline filed for debt restructuring, a move that could eventually lead to bankruptcy protection.
READ: Voepass Crash: Initial Report Released
Crash Investigation and Longstanding Safety Worries
On August 9, Voepass flight 2283, an ATR-72 traveling from Cascavel to São Paulo, crashed in the town of Vinhedo. A preliminary report pointed to possible ice buildup on the aircraft but did not establish a definitive cause.
Even before the crash, Voepass had drawn regulatory attention over safety concerns. In October, ANAC ordered the airline to take corrective measures, including reducing its network and increasing aircraft maintenance time. However, a fresh round of inspections in late February revealed what ANAC described as "degradation" in the airline’s management system and a "systematic failure to comply with regulatory requirements."
"ANAC’s decision stems from Voepass' inability to resolve irregularities identified during supervision, as well as the violation of previously established conditions for operations to continue within the required safety standards," the agency stated.
Safety Rating Plummets After Crash
Before the accident, AirlineRatings had assigned Voepass a 5/7 safety rating, reflecting prior concerns about incidents related to safety procedures. However, after the crash and the subsequent investigations into its safety failures, the airline’s rating was slashed to 1/7—one of the lowest possible scores—due to mounting operational safety issues.
Voepass Defends Safety Record Amid Suspension
Voepass acknowledged receiving the suspension order and pledged to demonstrate compliance with safety regulations.
"The company reiterates that its fleet is airworthy and capable of carrying out flights in compliance with strict safety standards," Voepass stated.
The airline, Brazil’s fourth-largest, operates ATR turboprop aircraft and held less than 1% of the national market share. Before the suspension, it had six aircraft serving 15 locations, along with two charter contracts.
Regulators Push for Stronger Oversight
Brazil’s Ministry of Ports and Airports has backed ANAC’s decision, emphasizing that the suspension is necessary to improve Voepass' governance and strengthen aviation safety in the country.
For now, Voepass remains grounded, facing an uncertain future as regulators and industry experts scrutinize its ability to meet required safety standards.
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