Lead

Two people have died after a light plane crashed into a hangar at Parafield Airport in Adelaide's northern suburbs on Wednesday afternoon, according to multiple media reports. The aircraft, a twin-engine Diamond DA42, burst into flames on impact, triggering a large fire that required a significant emergency response.

Coverage Comparison

Reporting from the ABC and BBC, based on official statements and eyewitness accounts, consistently confirms that the crash occurred shortly after take-off, around 2:10 PM local time, when the plane struck Hangar 54. The fire was subsequently extinguished, and the airport was closed to all air traffic. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has commenced an investigation into the incident.

While initial reports focused on the emergency response and the unknown number of people involved, later updates identified the deceased as an instructor and a student. All sources agree that the plane was conducting circuit training at the airport, though it remains unclear whether formal training was in progress at the time of the crash.

Key Claims

  • Two deaths: An instructor and a student died in the crash, as confirmed by the ATSB and reported by ABC and other outlets.
  • Injuries: A number of other people were injured. Reports vary on the exact count, with one source stating that nine people were hospitalized, including one with life-threatening injuries described as serious burns. Other sources mention two people with serious injuries, one with minor injuries, and six with smoke inhalation.
  • Aircraft and impact: The plane was a twin-engine Diamond DA42. It crashed into a hangar, causing a fire that was intensified by fuel and damaged the hangar's sprinkler system, hampering firefighting efforts. Three out of five aircraft inside the hangar were also damaged.
  • Investigation: The ATSB is investigating the incident, with the site due to be processed. The cause of the crash has not yet been determined.
  • Airport closure: Parafield Airport was closed to all air traffic following the incident and remained closed, according to authorities.

Perspectives

Emergency response: The Metropolitan Fire Service coordinated a large response, with over 55 firefighters attending. The fire took about 30 minutes to extinguish. The crash damaged the hangar's fire hydrant system, initially depriving firefighters of water. Smoke from the blaze prompted advice for nearby residents to stay indoors.

Official statements: South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas expressed condolences on social media, saying his thoughts were with the families and loved ones of those who died. Police Chief Inspector Andrew McCracken described the incident as tragic, noting the significant injuries, fire, and damage caused.

Eyewitness accounts: Witnesses reported seeing the plane nosedive over buildings before the crash. One witness, Joshua Swannell, described the event as happening quickly. The hangar fire produced thick black smoke visible several kilometres away.

Investigation status: The ATSB chief commissioner Angus Mitchell confirmed the fatalities and said the bureau would process the accident site. He noted the plane had been conducting circuit training, but it was not yet known if structured training was underway at the time.

This article is based on initial reports; details may evolve as the investigation progresses.