Peruvian Pilot Missing After Plane Crash: Search Intensifies

A Peruvian Air Force (FAP) second lieutenant, Ashley Vargas Mendoza, disappeared on May 19th, 2025, after her KT-1P training aircraft crashed near Paracas. The aircraft went down after takeoff from the FAP's Group Aéreo N.º 51 base in Pisco. Gonzalo, a local fisherman, recounted hearing a loud noise, "...a strong sound that indicated a crash." Despite extensive search efforts by military and police personnel, along with the pilot's family, Lieutenant Mendoza remains missing. However, the Minister of Defense, Walter Astidillo, confirmed the discovery of parts of the aircraft wreckage. Ashley's aunt, Pilar Mendoza Yalta, stated, "We are uniting efforts to find her." The FAP and the Ministry of Defense continue their search, and the family is demanding a thorough investigation. The incident highlights the risks involved in military aviation training and the unwavering support of the FAP and the community in times of crisis.