Alejandro Velasco Astete

Alejandro Velasco Astete (September 23, 1897 in Cusco – September 28, 1925) was a Peruvian pilot, most recognizable for being the first man to fly over the Andes. He was 28 years old upon his death.

In this Spanish name, the first or paternal surname is Velasco and the second or maternal family name is Astete.

Starting in Lima, Velasco succeeded in crossing the Andes and arrived in Cusco on August 31, 1925. His next flight on September 28 took him to Puno where many spectators had gathered. When he tried landing without hitting them, the plane crashed. Velasco died soon after that. He was pronounced dead on September 28, 1925.

The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco and a street near the airport have been named after him.

See also


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