Andy Shepherd: Fatal light plane crash, Maitland, pilot died after crashing in paddock
He was an ‘excellent’ and ‘highly qualified’ pilot that will be sadly missed by friends and family after his light plane crash landed in a paddock near Maitland on Sunday.
Newcastle
Don't miss out on the headlines from Newcastle. Followed categories will be added to My News.
He was an Englishman with a young family, described as a “lovely fella” and an “excellent pilot”.
Andy Shepherd, 44, died doing what he loved when the light plane he was flying, crash landed into the paddock of a property in the Hunter region on Sunday.
Onlookers watched in horror as the aircraft nosedived into the garden of the home in Denton Close at Windella, near Maitland just after 10am.
Despite attempts by local residents to perform CPR at the scene before paramedics arrived, he could not be resuscitated.
Mr Shepherd – an experienced pilot and member of the Royal Newcastle Aero Club – flew one of the club’s aircraft early on Sunday morning before landing it and taking up another aircraft.
The Osprey 2 amphibious aircraft – a recreation aircraft – was built by another club member who had recruited Mr Shepherd to carry out test flying duties.
“He was extremely professional, highly qualified pilot and RAAS engineer,” Bill Coote said.
Mr Shepherd had already flown the aircraft several times but on this occasion, it’s believed the light plane suffered engine troubles shortly after takeoff at about 2000 to 2500 feet in the air.
As smoke trailed from the aircraft, Mr Shepherd tried to land the aircraft but landed short of the runway and crashed into the paddock.
“He became a mate when he started test flying the aircraft,” Mr Coote said.
“He was very personable, keen pilot.
“My wife and I are very cut up about it.”
Another friend described Mr Shepherd as a man who had a lot of loyalty and humour.
“He always brought friends wherever he went. He was a big guy in character but would let you be the first one to talk.”
Police from the Port Stephens-Hunter district set up a crime scene at the crash site and will investigate the cause alongside the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has also been informed and will prepare a report for the coroner.