Light plane crash in western Melbourne
There are grave fears for those on board a small plane after it crashed about 50km northwest of Melbourne.
A light aircraft has crashed at an airfield in western Melbourne.
The crash occurred about 11.20am in an airfield on Aerodrome Road, Parwan, 50km northwest of Melbourne’s CBD.
It’s unclear what caused the crash and if anyone was injured.
The Cessna 150L plane is a single engine aircraft with two seats and is registered to the Bacchus Marsh Aero Club, with the registration VH-EYU.
It appears to have stalled after takeoff and crashed nose first into a field.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has commenced a transport safety investigation into the accident.
“As reported to the ATSB, shortly after take-off from Bacchus Marsh, the aircraft descended and collided with terrain in paddock adjacent to airport,” ATSB said in a statement.
Investigators specialised in aircraft operations will attend the site of the crash and conduct a range of evidence-gathering activities; including wreckage examination, site mapping with a drone, and recovery of any relevant components.
“Investigators will also seek to interview any witnesses and involved parties, and collect relevant recorded information including any flight tracking data, as well as pilot and aircraft maintenance records, and weather information.”
The plane is registered as a civil aircraft, meaning it is not used for recreational purposes.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said more information would be provided when it is appropriate to do so.
“The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined,” police said.
The aerodrome is operated by the Moorabool Shire Council.
Council chief executive Derek Madden said the council was “aware of the awful situation at the aerodrome”.
“While investigations are continuing we can’t make any further comment, but our thoughts are with all involved,” he said.
More Coverage
Costello blasts Andrews’ ‘moronic’ government for its Covid restrictions
In his most high-profile public appearance since resigning as Nine chairman, Peter Costello also blasted Daniel Andrews for wrongly believing his role was to embark on Indigenous treaty negotiations and join China’s One Belt One Road initiative.
Stamp duty is a ‘bad tax’: O’Neil
Housing Minister Clare O’Neil says it’s a ‘good idea’ that stamp duty be replaced with a land tax, following a call from the Business Council of Australia to phase it out.