ADELAIDE — A 36-year-old pilot has died after a light aircraft crashed during an agricultural spraying operation near the small town of Yeelanna, about 275 kilometres west of Adelaide.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. local time on Monday, according to a statement by South Australia Police (SA Police). The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, died at the scene.
Police confirmed that major crash investigators were deployed on Monday night to determine the cause of the crash.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) also announced that it would carry out a parallel investigation. In a statement, the bureau said the Air Tractor agricultural aircraft “collided with terrain while spraying crops.”
ATSB investigators specialising in aircraft operations have been dispatched to the crash site to gather evidence, examine the wreckage, and interview witnesses. Recovered aircraft components will be transported to the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra for further examination.
Authorities have yet to release the name of the deceased pilot, pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.
