One person dead in light aircraft crash in Blenheim

Saturday, 21 October 2023

One person has died after a light aircraft crash at the Omaka Airfield in Burleigh, Blenheim.

According to a police spokesperson, the crash was shortly before 1.20pm at the Omaka Aerodrome.

“The sole occupant of the aircraft has sadly died,” the spokesperson said.

The incident will also be referred to the Civil Aviation Authority.

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One witness told Stuff they arrived at the scene “only minutes” after the crash.

“There was a column of smoke and flames soaring.

“Soon two ambulances arrived and other services [arrived]. Police are there now,” the witness said.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand shift manager Alex Norris said fire engines from its Blenheim and Woodbourne stations were at the scene.

On Sunday, two air accident investigators were at the site, meeting with the emergency responders who were the first at the scene..

They also planned to interview anyone who witnessed the crash.