Horrific Plane Crash in Sydney’s Southwest Claims Three Lives
Sydney: Three individuals have tragically lost their lives following a midair collision involving two light aircraft over Sydney’s southwest. First responders described the scene as “unsurvivable” after the incident, which occurred around 11:50 AM on Saturday in the Belimbla Park area near Oakdale.
Emergency services quickly arrived at the site after receiving reports of the collision. Upon reaching the location, they found the first aircraft, a Cessna 182, engulfed in flames upon impact with the ground, as stated by NSW Police Acting Superintendent Timothy Calman. This plane was reportedly en route from Cessnock to Wollongong, carrying two unidentified passengers.
A second aircraft, identified as a Jabiru, was discovered approximately one kilometer north of the Cessna. Unfortunately, the pilot of the Jabiru was pronounced dead at the scene. Superintendent Calman noted that initial assessments indicate a midair collision, with evidence of debris observed falling from the sky.
The two crash sites have been designated as crime scenes, with ambulance and fire crews deployed to manage the situation. Notably, both planes were operating in uncontrolled airspace at the time of the incident. Authorities suspect that the Jabiru had taken off from the nearby Oaks Airfield.
Calman further commented on the nature of the crash, emphasizing that the impact for the first aircraft would not have been survivable. While the second plane did not ignite, it too was involved in a fatal incident. NSW Ambulance Inspector Joseph Ibrahim reported that emergency responders, including a helicopter, were dispatched to the alarming scene, but unfortunately, “nothing could be done” for the victims.
The crash sites, surrounded by bushland, are situated near two flying schools—Sydney Recreational Flying Club and Dave’s Flying School—indicating that the area is a popular spot for trainee pilots and recreational flyers. Local councillor Suzy Brandstater expressed her shock over the incident, remarking on the popularity of recreational flying in the vicinity.
She also expressed sympathy for community members who witnessed the horrific event, noting, “It’s something you’re never going to forget—seeing two planes crash.”
Authorities are advising the public to steer clear of the area as forensic teams and police rescue vehicles continue their operations. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) will send a team to the crash sites to gather witness testimonies, air traffic control and flight tracking data, as well as pilot and maintenance records.
In the coming days, investigators plan to conduct site mapping, inspect the wreckage of both aircraft, and retrieve relevant components for further examination at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra. They have also urged anyone who may have witnessed the flights or recorded footage to come forward.
