Grave fears as plane VANISHES from radar shortly after take-off sparking major emergency response

By NICHOLAS WILSON, NEWS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA

Published: 04:46 EDT, 18 September 2025 | Updated: 05:24 EDT, 18 September 2025

Authorities are searching for a missing plane after it vanished over a national park in southern New South Wales amid difficult terrain and conditions

The light aircraft, flown by a man believed to be in his 60s, was returning from Victoria when it disappeared over Budawang National Park on Thursday. 

Emergency services were called to the area following reports a distress beacon had been activated about 4.30pm.  

The plane is believed to have taken off from Bankstown Airport about 11am on Thursday before turning back over Victoria. 

It is understood to have been operated by Bankstown Flying School. The status of the pilot is unknown. 

Police are currently attempting to reach the suspected crash site on foot amid difficult terrain and weather conditions after it was located from the air. 

It followed a multi-agency search including the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, NSW Toll Ambulance Helicopter, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance.

Police scanner audio obtained from a viral news alert service captured the moment resources were called to the site of the potential crash. 

Authorities are searching for a light aircraft after it went missing over southern NSW 

The plane was returning from Victoria when it disappeared over Budawang National Park

The plane went missing over Budawang National Park on Thursday

‘All units inbound to the aircraft crash in the Lake George District,’ they said. 

‘The aircraft has a ballistic parachute in-built into the aircraft.

‘If it hasn’t deployed it has an explosive release mechanism that will be located between the pilot and the rear of the aircraft. 

‘You are not to approach at this stage.’

NSW Police said more information would be provided as it becomes available.    

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority tasked a jet and helicopter to assist before handing operations over to the police, a spokesperson told the Daily Mail. 

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau confirmed it was aware of an incident involving a light plane on Thursday afternoon and was gathering information. 

Daily Mail has contacted Bankstown Flying School.  

More to follow. 

Share or comment on this article:
Grave fears as plane VANISHES from radar shortly after take-off sparking major emergency response