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29
Jul
Plane performed ‘aerobatic manoeuvres’ before crash that killed Spofforth man
An aircraft performed aerobatic manoeuvres before crashing and killing two young men, including a student pilot from Spofforth, an investigation has found.
The men died after a two-seater light aircraft crashed into a field near Thorganby, between York and Selby, on July 28 last year.
North Yorkshire Police said at the time officers were called to the scene at around 9.50am, where both men were certified dead.
Matthew Samuel Bird, 21, from Spofforth, was flying the plane at the time. He died alongside Oliver Dawes, a 24-year-old from Burley-in-Wharfedale.
The Air Accident Investigation Branch today provided a brief update on the anniversary of the fatal crash.
The AAIB said the Cessna FRA150L – the model of light aircraft – was “performing aerobatic manoeuvres” north of Breighton Airfield before the incident occurred.
It then entered a steep descent and struck the ground in the field near Thorganby.
The investigation is still ongoing, and a final report will be published in due course, the statement added.
Oliver Dawes
Mr Bird’s provisional cause of death was attributed to facial injuries at his inquest opening on August 8, 2024, but it was adjourned for a full hearing at a later date.
Mr Bird's family released a tribute to him shortly after his death. It said:
Yesterday we lost our son, a brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend.
Matthew meant so much to so many. We are utterly heartbroken, but he will live on in our hearts as we cherish the incredibly special memories he’s left us with.
The family of Mr Dawes also released a statement at the time, which said Oliver would “continue to live in our hearts".
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