Three Dead As Two Aircraft Collide In Australia

[Ikenna Ngere]

A tragic mid-air collision between two light aircraft in Sydney’s southwest, Australia, has left three people dead.​

The accident occurred around 11:50 a.m. on Saturday near Belimbla Park, Oakdale, according to NSW Police.

Acting Superintendent Timothy Calman reported that two individuals were found dead at the crash site of a Cessna 182, while another was discovered about a kilometer away in a Jabiru.

Both crash sites were deemed unsurvivable, with the Cessna 182’s wreckage engulfed in flames.

The collision took place in uncontrolled airspace. Calman mentioned that while such incidents are rare, they are often catastrophic.

Authorities identified the pilot of the Jabiru but were still confirming the identities of those in the Cessna 182.

It’s believed the Jabiru departed from Oaks airfield, while the Cessna 182 was en route from Cessnock to Wollongong.

Footage from the crash site showed the aircraft wreckage near forested terrain, adding to the challenges faced by investigators.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has taken charge of the investigation, deploying a team from Canberra to examine the wreckage and gather evidence.

The ATSB stated that investigators will document the crash sites, examine wreckage, interview witnesses, and collect flight data, maintenance records, and weather details.

“A team of transport safety investigators from the ATSB’s Canberra office, with experience in aircraft operations and maintenance, is preparing to deploy to the accident sites of both aircraft to begin evidence-collecting activities.

“Over coming days, investigators will undertake site mapping, examine the wreckage of both aircraft, and recover any relevant components for further examination at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra.

“Investigators will also seek to interview any witnesses and involved parties, and collect relevant recorded information including any air traffic control and flight tracking data, as well as pilot and aircraft maintenance records, and weather information.

“However, if at any point during the investigation we uncover any critical safety issues we will immediately inform relevant parties so they can take safety actions,” the ATSB said in a statement.

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