Two light aircraft collide after takeoff in Austria, killing both pilots
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
Two light aircraft collided near Gneixendorf airfield in Austria at about 9:15 a.m., killing both pilots aged 36 and 70. The collision occurred at an altitude of roughly 350 meters after one plane, which had been towing a glider, turned and was struck by the second aircraft during takeoff. Both planes caught fire, while the glider was not involved in the accident.
Key Facts
- The collision occurred at about 9:15 a.m. near Gneixendorf airfield at an altitude of roughly 350 meters.
- Both pilots, aged 36 and 70, died at the scene and were members of a local flying club.
- One aircraft was towing a glider and had begun a turn after releasing it when the second aircraft struck it during takeoff.
- Both light aircraft caught fire, while the glider was not involved in the accident.
- 115 firefighters and 32 vehicles responded to the scene.
Collision Sequence
The accident happened near Gneixendorf airfield at about 9:15 a.m. at an altitude of roughly 350 meters. One aircraft was towing a glider and, after releasing it, began a turn. At that moment, the second aircraft took off and collided with the tow plane. The glider was not involved in the accident.
Casualties and Response
Both pilots, aged 36 and 70, died at the scene. They were members of a local flying club. Both light aircraft caught fire after the collision. 115 firefighters and 32 vehicles were deployed to the site. The cause of the collision is under investigation.
1 source
Two light aircraft collide after takeoff in Austria, killing both pilots
