Shivangi Sinha
The crash of TAM Flight JJ3054 in 2007 is widely regarded as one of the most heartbreaking and catastrophic aviation tragedies in Brazil’s history. The disaster claimed the lives of all passengers and crew on board, leaving countless families shattered. Among them was Roberto Gomes, who lost his beloved brother, Mario Gomes, in the crash. The emotional weight of this loss has stayed with him ever since. In Netflix’s ‘A Tragedy Foretold: Flight 3054,’ Roberto courageously shares his experience of that devastating day and the painful aftermath. He not only recounts the deep grief his family endured but also speaks candidly about the systemic failures and negligence that he believes played a role in his brother’s death.
Roberto Gomes Was Critical of the Government’s Response After the Flight JJ3054 Crash
Roberto Corrêa Gomes was at work in Porto Alegre when he first heard the news of a plane crash involving flight JJ3054. Initially, it was reported to be a cargo plane, but as details began to surface, the devastating reality became clear that it was a passenger flight. What struck him the most was the realization that his brother, Mario Gomes, was on board. In a state of disbelief and desperation, Roberto and his family immediately contacted Mario’s travel agent to confirm the booking details. Clinging to a sliver of hope, Roberto quickly boarded a flight to São Paulo, still unable to fully accept the worst. He later shared that until he had official confirmation, he was trapped in the tormenting thought that perhaps his brother hadn’t boarded the plane or that there had been some mix-up.
Roberto shared that the first time he heard his brother Mario’s name listed among the passengers was not from airline officials but through a radio broadcast. He found it deeply inappropriate and upsetting that such sensitive information was disseminated through the media instead of being relayed privately and respectfully by authorities. After arriving in São Paulo, he went to the hotel where the families of the victims were being gathered and most of them were waiting anxiously in the basement, desperate for answers. Roberto described the painful routine of visiting the coroner’s office daily, clinging to hope and longing for closure. It took an agonizing 22 days before Mario’s remains were officially identified.
Roberto didn’t hold back his frustration and disappointment with how the tragedy was handled, especially by those in positions of authority. He openly blamed Denise Abreu, the former Director and Vice President of ANAC (Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency), citing her role in what he believed was gross mismanagement and oversight that contributed to the disaster. He also found it disheartening that she was eventually acquitted of all charges. Roberto expressed that the compensation offered to victims’ families could never truly reflect the magnitude of their loss. It was not only insufficient but also failed to acknowledge the irreversible impact the crash had on their lives.
Roberto Gomes is Working as a Professional Trustee Today
Roberto Gomes continues to live in the same apartment in Porto Alegre that he called home when his world was upended by the loss of his brother, Mario. Back then, Roberto was working as a journalist, a profession that shaped his voice and view of the world. Although he has since retired from journalism, his passion for structured work and community involvement has never left him. Through the years, he has often spoken about what he went through and has publicly condemned the relief measures that were adopted by the government. Rather than stepping back entirely, he simply redirected his energy into new avenues that allowed him to remain active and engaged.
These days, Roberto devotes his time to roles that draw on his sense of responsibility and his belief in collective well-being. One of his current pursuits is working as a professional trustee, a role that requires him to manage and represent the interests of others in financial or legal matters. He is also actively involved in RG10 Condominium Management, where his organizational skills and leadership contribute to building better residential communities. In 2024, he was among the attendees at the Condominium Sul Magazine’s Syndic of the Year event, a gathering that celebrates excellence and integrity in property management.
Roberto Gomes’ Life is Rich With Love in Many Ways
Roberto lives a quiet yet meaningful life. Though he appears to be single, he is a devoted father and has occasionally spoken about his children, particularly one of his sons. Animals, especially dogs, have always held a special place in his heart. Over the years, they’ve been more than just pets. Today, his home is shared by two spirited and affectionate dogs: Chappo, a strong and sensitive pit bull, and Panda, a gentle American Staffordshire Terrier. They fill his space with life and a steady rhythm of comfort.
Beyond family and his canine companions, Roberto is surrounded by a close circle of friends. These are people he’s known for decades and who have become his chosen family. He is quite the traveler, too, and even went on a Europe trip in 2024. Whether it’s gathering around a table for dinner, reminiscing about old times, or simply being present during quiet evenings, this tight-knit group has remained a powerful force of support.
Read More: Henguel Pereira: Where is the Flight 3054 Crash’s First Responder Now?
