Three people have tragically lost their lives in Australia after a firefighting plane crashed in difficult terrain near Mount Isa, in Queensland’s north-west. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, prompting an emergency crew to respond to the scene. The Queensland Police confirmed that all three individuals on board the aircraft were found deceased.
Authorities from Mount Isa and a rescue helicopter were immediately dispatched to the crash site, which was located in challenging terrain. Despite their efforts, the officers were only able to reach the site in the evening and confirm the fatalities. Paramedics declared the crash as “unsurvivable.”
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) expressed their deepest condolences to the families of the victims. They also revealed that the plane had been contracted to support the state’s bushfire response efforts.
According to ABC Australia, the small aircraft was en route from Toowoomba to Mount Isa to conduct line scans and infra-red mapping when it crashed. It is believed that the crew was gathering vital terrain data for future use during bushfire emergencies and mapping areas affected by recent bushfire activity in western Queensland.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk expressed her shock and sadness over the incident. She praised the crew’s dedication to keeping Queenslanders safe and extended her heartfelt condolences to those affected by the tragedy.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also offered his condolences to the families of the victims. He acknowledged the bravery of those on the front lines of bushfires and emphasized the dangers they face in their line of work.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and further details will be revealed as they emerge.
