A major investigation has been launched
A light aircraft involved in the collision in Littleborough(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
The owner of a light aircraft which crashed near Rochdale says it is ‘working with the authorities’, after two men were killed in the tragedy. An investigation is underway after a Cirrus SR20 light aircraft plummeted to the ground on farmland near Blackstone Edge, in Littleborough, yesterday (February 3).
Formal identification is yet to take place for the two victims, according to Greater Manchester Police. There were not thought to be any other passengers on board.
The aircraft involved, registered G-GXVV, was owned by Daedalus Aviation (Services) Ltd – a Birmingham-based company offering pilot training experiences. FlightRadar24 data shows the aircraft left Birmingham Airport shortly before 11am and headed north, but the final signal was sent around 40 minutes later near Marsden, West Yorkshire.
The Manchester Evening News’ sister title Birmingham Live spoke to Daedalus Aviation (Services) Ltd, which said it was ‘currently working with the authorities on the investigation’. A company representative added that the firm has ‘no further comment’ to make.
The company declined to comment when approached by the M.E.N. on Tuesday. The Air Accident Investigation Branch has launched an investigation into the collision.
Emergency services at the scene on Wednesday morning(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
A spokesperson said: “An accident involving a light aircraft which occurred today (February 3) near Rochdale, Greater Manchester, has been notified to the AAIB. An investigation has been launched and a multidisciplinary team of inspectors are on their way to the accident site.”
Emergency services were seen working in the area this morning (Wednesday). The aircraft remained in situ. GMP says an enhanced police presence will remain at the scene while investigations continue.
Paul Waugh, Labour MP for Rochdale, posted on Facebook: “Our community is deeply saddened by the tragic small plane crash in Littleborough. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends of the two people who lost their lives. No words can ease the shock of such a sudden loss, but we hope their loved ones find strength in the support around them and comfort in cherished memories.”
He added: “This is a truly awful tragedy and my thoughts are with the two men’s families and friends. I want to thank all the emergency services who attended the scene and are working to gather evidence.
The aircraft in situ on Wednesday morning(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
“All Rochdalians, including those of us who frequently walk across those moors beneath Blackstone Edge, will want to send our deepest condolences to those affected by this heartbreaking loss. As the police have said, if anyone has any information, or witnessed the crash, do get in touch with them.”
Chief Superintendent Danny Inglis, from GMP’s Rochdale district, said on Tuesday: “This is a devastating incident where two people have lost their lives and our thoughts are with their families and friends. We have been working closely with emergency service colleagues and partner agencies throughout the day to establish the full circumstances and we will be on scene overnight and into tomorrow.
“There will be an enhanced presence as officers and investigators comprehensively survey the area and ensure all available evidence is recovered. If anyone has any information, or witnessed the crash, we would urge you to get in touch with us.”
Witnesses are being asked to come forward to GMP. Details can be passed on by calling 101 or using Live Chat on GMP’s website, quoting log number 1056 of February 3, 2026.