A small aircraft crashed into the sea off the coast of South Australia on Friday afternoon, 6 February, resulting in the deaths of all three men on board, including the pilot. The accident occurred near Longbe, a coastal area close to the port town of Goolwa South, approximately 63 kilometres south of the state capital, Adelaide.
According to local police, emergency responders reached the scene promptly following the crash. All three occupants were recovered deceased, and the wreckage of the aircraft was retrieved from the sea and brought ashore.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has deployed investigators to the site, who began preliminary inquiries on Saturday to determine the cause of the crash. Police and investigators have suggested that either mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions may have contributed to the aircraft’s rapid descent, though no official determination has yet been made.
Local media outlet Seven News shared video footage on social media showing the aircraft’s nose plunging into the sea at high speed. The footage depicts the aircraft striking the water violently, leaving clear signs of destruction. Eyewitnesses reported hearing screams and a loud explosion at the moment of impact.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area due to hazardous conditions following the crash and have reinforced safety measures. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the accident, emphasising that it is too early to draw definitive conclusions.
The following table summarises the key details of the crash:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of crash | Longbe, Goolwa South, South Australia |
| Distance from capital | Approximately 63 km south of Adelaide |
| Date and time | 6 February, afternoon |
| Number of occupants | 3 men (including the pilot) |
| Fatalities | All occupants deceased |
| Responders | Local police and rescue teams |
| Investigating authority | Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) |
| Crash footage | Released by local media |
The incident has shocked the local community and aviation enthusiasts alike. Authorities continue to stress the importance of avoiding the crash site while investigators carry out a thorough examination of the wreckage. The ATSB is expected to release a detailed report once investigations conclude, which may provide a clearer understanding of the factors that led to this tragic loss of life.
