The Australian Parachute Federation (APF) has reported that eight skydivers successfully exited a plane shortly before it crashed, resulting in the tragic death of a 54-year-old pilot in southern New South Wales. The incident occurred as the Pilatus Porter aircraft was returning from a skydiving expedition in Moruya, located 305 kilometres south of Sydney. The crash took place near Moruya Airport amid bushland, not far from George Bass Drive.
The pilot, the sole occupant of the aircraft, was pronounced dead at the scene. APF’s chief executive, Stephen Porter, expressed heartfelt condolences to the pilot’s family and friends, as well as to the skydivers who had just disembarked. He described the event as deeply distressing, affecting the entire skydiving community. Porter also thanked first responders for their swift assistance.
In light of the accident, the APF is collaborating with relevant authorities. The Australian Transport Safety Board (ATSB) has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. A specialised team of investigators from Canberra and Brisbane is being deployed to the site to examine aircraft operations, maintenance, and engineering aspects.
The ATSB has indicated that investigators will attempt to interview witnesses and involved parties, as well as gather critical evidence, including flight tracking data and maintenance records for both the pilot and the aircraft. They are also appealing for anyone who may have recorded video footage of the aircraft during or immediately following the incident to come forward and share it with investigators.
This incident underscores the risks associated with aviation and skydiving activities and has left many in shock within the skydiving community as they come to terms with the pilot’s tragic loss.