Tragic Mid-Air Collision Claims Three Lives Near Sydney
A former Qantas pilot and two others died in a fatal crash involving two light aircraft, prompting an investigation by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.
- Three men died after a Cessna 182 and a Jabiru light aircraft collided mid-air over Belimbla Park, southwest of Sydney.
- Among the deceased was Gary Criddle, a 72-year-old former Qantas pilot with a long career in military and commercial aviation.
- The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is leading the investigation, collecting data and examining wreckage to determine the cause of the crash.
- Witnesses reported seeing debris falling from the sky, and emergency crews confirmed that the impact was not survivable.
- The crash occurred in an area popular with recreational pilots, near two flying schools, and has deeply affected the local community.
The Age 
9News 
UPI 
The Independent 
SBS News 
Associated Press 
Australian Broadcasting Corporation 
The Sydney Morning Herald 