Shifnal aircraft crash: Report into tragedy which killed pair could take months
The wreckage of a microlight that crashed in a field killing two men has been moved as investigators begin their work to establish what caused the tragedy.
The microlight, which came down on Monday evening, was recovered from the field off Shaw Lane in Shifnal yesterday and will be taken to Farnborough for examination by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
But it could take months for the report to be released to the public, the AAIB said.
A spokesman for the team said the investigation could take months to reveal the cause of the crash.
Although the identity of the victims has not yet been revealed, Andy Richards, safety advisor for the nearby Wrekin Microlight Flying Club, said those in the aircraft had not been members of the club. He did confirm he believed the men were from the West Midlands area.
Witnesses said the plane appeared to lose power before entering a steep descent to the ground.
Local flying groups have paid tribute to the victims.
In a statement, Air Midwest, an aviation school in Stourbridge, said: "Terrible news as two people have been killed in an air accident near Shifnal airstrip.
"The aircraft involved is believed to be a fixed-wing microlight but we still await full details. We can confirm none of our aircraft were involved.
"We have been informed of the probable identity of the persons involved in this tragic incident near Shifnal Airstrip and we can confirm now that none of our pilots or associates are believed involved.
"Air Midwest would like to extend our condolences to the families and friends of the crew involved."
Light Air Photography shared the news of the crash on its Facebook page and added: "Our thoughts and prayers go to the family and friends of the two people who died in this incident."
A spokesperson for HM Coroner's Service said: "The coroner has been informed about the crash and there is an ongoing investigation."
