A devastating aviation incident has left two people dead after a light aircraft crashed into an airport hangar and erupted in flames in Adelaide, South Australia, local authorities confirmed. The crash unfolded on Wednesday afternoon local time at Parafield Airport, triggering an immediate large-scale emergency response.
According to reporting from Australia’s ABC News, the aircraft involved in the accident is a twin-engine Diamond DA42, a model manufactured by Diamond Aircraft Industries. The manufacturer’s official website notes the plane is designed to carry a maximum of four passengers and crew.
Local media outlets have confirmed that additional people sustained injuries in the incident, though the exact count of wounded individuals has not been finalized as of the latest updates.
In an official statement, South Australia Police confirmed that the immediate surrounding area of the crash site was evacuated shortly after the incident to ensure public safety as first responders worked to contain the emergency. Parafield Airport administration also released a public statement via its social media channels, acknowledging the serious event and confirming that the airport is extending full logistical and operational support to emergency teams working on the response.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau, the nation’s lead agency for aviation accident investigations, has launched a formal probe into the circumstances that led to the crash.
Peter Malinauskas, the Premier of South Australia, released a public comment via social media expressing his condolences for the tragedy. “My thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who have passed away, and with everyone affected by this devastating event,” Malinauskas wrote.
The premier also confirmed that the fire that broke out in the hangar following the crash has been fully extinguished by emergency crews. Parafield Airport remains closed to all air traffic as the investigation and cleanup operations continue, with emergency personnel still on site working with professional urgency to process the scene. Malinauskas commended first responders for their rapid, professional response to the incident.