David Stephens, an accountant from Bega, took off from Wangaratta in Victoria aboard his 1966 Beechcraft Debonair on Tuesday, aiming for Moruya Airport in New South Wales. However, he was reported missing when the aircraft did not arrive at its destination.
A search effort, involving multiple agencies, faced challenges due to adverse weather and rugged terrain. Ultimately, the missing plane was located on snow-covered mountainous ground in the Kosciuszko National Park, near Khancoban. Riverina Police District Commander, Superintendent Andrew Spliet, remarked upon discovering the wreckage that there had been a “significant impact” with the terrain, making it evident that survival was not possible. The destruction of the aircraft left it nearly unrecognisable, indicating a high-speed collision with the mountains.
The investigation is being led by NSW Police, with a recovery operation underway to assess the cause of the accident and to identify Stephens. Spliet noted that weather conditions on the day of the flight were “fairly unpleasant” and “not ideal,” further complicating the situation. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has commenced its own investigation, collaborating with police to gather evidence and collect flight data, weather information, as well as records pertaining to the pilot and aircraft maintenance.
The ATSB plans to provide preliminary findings within the next two months. David’s family shared insights about his extensive flying experience, stating he had piloted for approximately 60 years and had even earned his pilot’s licence before his driver’s licence. They expressed their sorrow over his disappearance and speculated that he may have believed he could navigate over the mountains, despite the quickly changing weather conditions.
Only two months away from retirement, David’s family was looking forward to spending more time with him. They expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts to locate him and the plane, and hope that answers will come as the investigation progresses.