A plane crash in Queensland, Australia has resulted in the tragic deaths of three aerial firefighters. The incident involved an aircraft from the Victorian company AGAIR, which was on a mission to help control bushfires in the region. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash.
Key Points
- Victorian aviation company AGAIR’s plane crashed during firefighting duties in Queensland.
- Three crew members perished in the accident.
- The crash occurred in the north-western region near Mount Isa.
- Authorities are investigating the crash, with the ATSB set to conduct a thorough examination.
- Queensland’s premier and the prime minister have expressed their condolences.
A devastating plane crash has claimed the lives of three aerial firefighters in Queensland’s north-west. The aircraft, belonging to the Victorian aviation company AGAIR, was on a firefighting surveillance operation when it went down in challenging terrain near Mount Isa.
AGAIR released a statement confirming the tragic event, expressing their devastation and extending their thoughts to the families of the deceased crew members. The company has pledged full cooperation with the investigation authorities.
Emergency responders, after receiving a call from a local at 2.30pm, faced a difficult journey to the crash site, located in remote and challenging terrain. The wreckage was discovered by the Rescue 400 helicopter at around 4pm, with ground crews later confirming the deaths.
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Service (QFES) expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the disaster response community, which includes contracted support personnel. Tributes flowed from state Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, acknowledging the vital work of the crew and the profound impact of the tragedy.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is set to launch a detailed investigation, with a preliminary report expected in the next six to eight weeks. The Forensic Crash Unit is also conducting an inquiry on behalf of the coroner. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who combat natural disasters to protect others.
