Hayden Bruce, Tom Sheather: Report into fatal plane crash released

The initial report into a fatal plane crash which killed an Albury man has been released.

A plane crash in Sutton, ACT has claimed the lives of two people this afternoon. Picture: 7NEWS

An initial investigation into a fatal plane crash which killed two border men shows the plane spun out of control before smashing into the ground.

The Cessna R172K left Canberra Airport with a pilot and observer on board to conduct power line survey work for Essential Energy to the north of Sutton, New South Wales, on April 13.

While surveying powerlines servicing properties to the east of Tallagandra Ln, the plane crashed, killing the pilot Hayden Bruce, 31, and observer Tom Sheather, 18.

Hayden Bruce, 31, was flying a Cessna 172 when it crashed outside Canberra on Tuesday. He died instantly. Picture: Facebook.

Tom Sheather, 18, was in a Cessna 172 when it crashed outside Canberra on Tuesday. Picture: Supplied

According to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau’s initial investigation three witnesses in the area described the aircraft flying low above the trees before taking a left banking turn followed by a steep descent before it collided with the ground.

ATSB Director Transport Safety Stuart Macleod said examination of the wreckage showed the aircraft impacted the ground in a near vertical, nose down attitude.

“To date, ATSB transport safety investigators have examined the aircraft wreckage, mapped the accident site with a drone, retrieved relevant aircraft components for further analysis, interviewed witnesses and the aircraft operator, downloaded flight-related electronic data, and collected weather information,” Mr Macleod said.

He noted the preliminary report did not include any safety findings or analysis, which will be detailed in the investigation’s final report.

“As the investigation progresses, the ATSB will continue to analyse the aircraft’s flight path and recorded data, and review pilot qualifications, maintenance records and the operator’s procedures for conducting flight survey aerial work,” he said.

“However, should a critical safety issue be identified during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate and timely safety action can be taken.”