Three people tragically lost their lives in a light aircraft crash shortly after takeoff from Shellharbour Airport in New South Wales on Saturday, October 11, 2025. The crash occurred around 10 a.m. near the airport, located approximately 100 kilometers south of Sydney.
According to New South Wales Police, the aircraft-a Piper Saratoga-was en route to Bathurst when it crashed and caught fire upon impact. Emergency services, including Fire and Rescue NSW and the Rural Fire Service (RFS), responded promptly to the scene. Despite their efforts, the intense fire left no chance of survival for the three occupants.
The pilot has been identified as Andrew Connors, a local builder in his 50s, who owned the aircraft. His wife, Julieanne, and a family friend, Colin McLachlan, were also aboard. They were prominent members of the Illawarra community, known for their longstanding building service and generosity.
Witnesses reported that the aircraft struggled to gain altitude shortly after takeoff, with its left wing dipping before the plane crashed and burst into flames. The crash occurred during an airport open day, and approximately 10 to 15 people, including members of the RFS present for training, witnessed the incident.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has deployed investigators to gather data from the site, including weather conditions, maintenance history, and pilot credentials. Flight data confirmed the aircraft veered left moments after takeoff. Authorities are also seeking eyewitness footage to aid the investigation.
Local Labor MP Katelin McInerney extended condolences to the victims’ families and first responders, with counseling to be provided for those affected. The scene has been described as gruesome, and emergency services remain at the site.
