Two crew members killed in Air Corps plane crash
A full investigation will get underway today into the crash of an Air Corps plane in which two crew members lost their lives.
A flight instructor and cadet were on board the two-seater aircraft when it came down near the village of Cong on the Galway-Mayo border yesterday evening.
A local woman raised the alarm after seeing the plane flying low before hearing a loud bang.
The Pilatus PC-9 aircraft was taking part in a flight training exercise with two other planes, both of which landed safely at Galway Airport.
Defence Minister Willie O'Dea has expressed his deepest sympathy to the families of the two Air Corps personnel who died in the crash.
The Taoiseach has also said he was shocked and saddened to learn of the accident, while President Mary McAleese said the sympathies and prayers of the nation were with the families and colleagues of the two young men.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny also offered his condolences.
"I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of two young Air Corps pilots who lost their lives yesterday while on a training flight," Mr Kenny said.
"This terrible accident is a tragic reminder of the invaluable duties our pilots perform on our behalf in service to the State. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends and all members of the Air Corps.”
