Discover more about the death and obituary of 56-year-old pilot Stephen Gale, who died in the wake of the Port Phillip aircraft disaster.
Following the fatal jet accident over Port Phillip Bay on November 19, 2023, which took the life of seasoned pilot Stephen Gale, the aviation world is in sorrow.
About 12 km west of Mount Martha, Gale, flying an S-211 Marchetti aircraft, collided with another jet of the same kind that was flying in formation, causing a catastrophic collision.
James Rose, a 30-year-old camera operator who was traveling with him, died while recording a video for an upcoming television program.
After the mid-air collision, the second aircraft, piloted by John Smith and carrying a second camera operator, somehow made a safe landing at Essendon Airport.
Smith and his companion were disturbed by the terrifying experience even if they came out of it unscathed.
To ascertain the facts behind this devastating loss in the aviation community, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an inquiry into the disaster.
Details of the Port Phillip Bay plane crash that killed Stephen Gale
Page Contents
Tragically, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) led a search and rescue operation for the two S-211 Marchetti jet accident victims, named Gale and Rose.
The debris was found on the seabed as a result of the operation, which included three rescue helicopters, water police, and volunteer marine rescue groups.
On Monday, November 20, what are thought to be Gale and Rose’s bodies were found.
The investigation into the crash is being handled by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), which is pleading for witnesses or anybody with video of the event to come forward via their website.
In about two months, the ATSB intends to provide a preliminary report, and at the end of the inquiry, a thorough final report.
Over the bay, the doomed aircraft, which belonged to a firm that provided pleasure flights over Melbourne, were flying in formation.
Produced in Italy, the S-211 Marchetti aircraft have been used for military training in several nations, such as Singapore and the Philippines. They are capable of reaching top speeds of 740 km/h and performing impressive aerobatics.
Stephen Gale’s Death Notice: Family Sorrows The Drop
Stephen Gale flew for almost thirty years and was an enthusiastic pilot. He has experience flying a variety of aircraft, such as gliders, jets, and helicopters.
In addition, he was a teacher who trained a lot of aspiring pilots. Gale was a wonderful husband, father, and grandpa who enjoyed life and new experiences, according to his family.
His spouse Jane, his kids David and Sarah, and his grandkids Jack and Emily survive him.
A gifted camera operator, James Rose contributed to a number of TV programs, including Masterchef Australia.
When the tragedy occurred, he was recording video for a new program that included aerial views of Melbourne.
Rose was described by his family as a kind, giving, and lively individual who loved taking pictures and making videos. His sister Anna, his girlfriend Lisa, and parents Peter and Mary survive him.
The aviation world has complimented Gale and Rose’s professionalism and abilities and offered its sympathies to their families and friends. Later on, there will be a memorial ceremony for them.
Also Read, Shelby Holliday, Yoon Chan Young, and Hailey Peters.
