BREAKING: Authorities fear the missing pilot of a light aircraft that crashed in Budawang National Park is unlikely to have survived the impact. Detective Chief Inspector David Cockram stated that rescue services are not optimistic about the pilot’s condition following a distress signal issued shortly before the plane disappeared from radar.
The incident occurred on September 18 when the single-occupant aircraft left Bankstown Flying School at 11:15 AM. It was scheduled to return at 3:15 PM but lost contact around 2:50 PM. Authorities located the crash site at approximately 5:30 PM, but the rugged terrain has made access challenging.
“We have deployed significant resources to the area, but the crash site is only reachable on foot,” Inspector Cockram explained outside the Ulladulla Police Station. “The conditions last night were difficult, with fog preventing aircraft from inserting personnel directly into the site.”
Rescue teams, including police, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, helicopter units, firefighters, and paramedics, resumed their search efforts early on Friday morning. The challenging bush terrain is hampering immediate recovery operations.
“We expect our teams to reach the site this afternoon for an assessment,” Inspector Cockram added. “However, the recovery of different parts of the aircraft will require careful handling due to safety protocols.”
As the situation develops, the community remains hopeful despite the grim outlook. The local authorities are working diligently to provide updates and support to the pilot’s loved ones during this distressing time.
Stay tuned for more updates as this urgent situation unfolds.
