The aviation community is sad about the death of experienced pilot Stephen Gale in the terrible plane crash over Port Phillip Bay on November 19, 2023.
Approximately 12 kilometers west of Mount Martha, Gale’s S-211 Marchetti aircraft collided with another jet of the same model flying in formation, precipitating a catastrophic crash.
James Rose, a 30-year-old camera operator who was traveling with him, perished while filming for a new television program.
Following the mid-air collision, the second aircraft, piloted by John Smith and carrying an additional camera operator, miraculously and securely descended to Essendon Airport.
Despite not suffering any physical injuries, Smith and his passenger were understandably distressed as a result of the terrifying incident.
An investigation has been commenced by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) into the accident, to reveal the factors that contributed to this lamentable demise within the aviation industry.
Stephen Gale Death: Port Phillip Bay Plane Crash Details
Regrettably, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) led a search and rescue operation in an attempt to locate Gale and Rose, the occupants of the two downed S-211 Marchetti aircraft.
The salvage vessel was located on the ocean floor as a result of the operation, which was coordinated by volunteer marine rescue units, water police, and three rescue helicopters.
Human remains believed to be those of Gale and Rose were discovered on Monday, November 20.
In command of the collision investigation, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has issued a call to action via their website for witnesses or individuals with surveillance footage to come forward.
The ATSB anticipates the release of an initial report within a timeframe of around two months, followed by the submission of a comprehensive final report after the inquiry.
The unfortunate aircraft, which belonged to an organization that operated pleasure flights over Melbourne, was performing a formation flight across the bay.
Produced in Italy, the S-211 Marchetti fighters have been utilized for military training in several nations, including the Philippines and Singapore. These aircraft are capable of performing aerobatic maneuvers with remarkable velocity (up to 740 km/h).
Stephen Gale passed away. The bereaved family mourns the loss.
Having accumulated over three decades of aviation experience, Stephen Gale was an enthusiastic aviator. He had conducted operations aboard a variety of aircraft, such as gliders, jets, and helicopters.
He also instructed a great number of aspiring pilots in the art of flight. Gale was described by his family as a devoted grandfather, father, and husband with an adventurous spirit.
Jane, his spouse, his offspring David and Sarah, and Emily and Jack, his grandchildren, survive him.
James Rose worked as a skilled camera operator on several television programs, including Masterchef Australia.
When the accident occurred, he was filming footage for a new program that featured aerial views of Melbourne.
According to Rose’s family, he was a generous, amusing, and kind individual with a passion for photography and videography. His sister Anna, his parents, Peter and Mary, and his fiancée Lisa, survive him.
In addition to extending condolences to the families and colleagues of Gale and Rose, the aviation community has lauded their professionalism and abilities. Subsequently, a memorial service will be conducted in their honor.
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