(MENAFN- Bangladesh Monitor) Dhaka: Two flying instructors employed by the Ardmore Flying School are found dead today after the plane they were flying crashed in the central North Island, New Zealand. The plane set off from Palmerston North yesterday night, March 23 and was heading to Ardmore via Taupō Airport.
After it failed to arrive, authorities were alerted and launched an aerial search.
Police confirmed it was discovered shortly before midday today.
"Police are at the scene of a plane crash in the Kaimanawa Ranges," a spokesperson said.
"Due to poor weather last night and earlier today which prevented helicopter activity, police were unable to land in the area until late this morning. The overdue aircraft was located around 11:30 am today."
Ardmore Flying School says the families have been informed and are "obviously distraught by this tragic loss".
"With great sadness we have been advised that both pilots did not survive the crash and our heartfelt sympathy and thoughts go out to their families, partners and friends," a spokesperson for the school said.
"We are keeping in close contact with the pilots' families and will support them, our staff and students through this sad time."
The pilots were on a regular flight as part of the requirement to gain flying hours towards a higher qualification.
"At this point we have no indication of what may have occurred on the flight," the spokesperson added.
"The Civil Aviation Authority has been informed and will now conduct a thorough investigation. Until the investigation is complete, we cannot speculate on the possible cause of this tragic event."
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission said it has opened an investigation and investigators are expected to be at the site on Monday morning, March 25.
MENAFN2308201901630000ID1098919337
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.