Air accident investigators have launched a comprehensive probe into a light aircraft crash that occurred after the plane departed from Birmingham Airport earlier today. The incident has prompted a significant emergency services response in the Greater Manchester area.
Emergency Response Activated Following Aircraft Incident
Multiple fire crews and ambulance services were dispatched to the scene after the Cirrus SR20 aircraft lost altitude and crashed in countryside near Rochdale, Greater Manchester. The plane had taken off from Birmingham Airport's XLR Executive Jet Centre at approximately 10am this morning, Tuesday, February 3.
Investigation Underway to Determine Crash Circumstances
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch has confirmed that a multidisciplinary team of inspectors is en route to the accident site to begin their investigation. According to initial reports, two people were on board the aircraft at the time of the incident, though their condition remains unconfirmed as authorities work to establish the full circumstances.
Greater Manchester Police have established a scene at the crash location in Littleborough and are continuing their assessment of any potential casualties. A police spokesperson has requested that members of the public avoid the area while emergency service workers conduct their essential enquiries.
Parachute System Deployment Reported
Initial reports from eyewitnesses and images circulating online suggest that the aircraft's onboard parachute system may have been deployed during the incident. Photographs appear to show a parachute canopy entangled in an electricity pylon near the crash site. The Cirrus SR20 model is known to be equipped with a whole-airframe parachute system designed for emergency situations.
Airport Confirms Departure and Offers Support
A Birmingham Airport spokesperson has confirmed the aircraft's departure from their facilities, stating: "We can confirm that a private light aircraft left BHX, from the XLR Executive Jet Centre at around 10am today. We are supporting all our partners, and no further comment will be made until all facts are established by our third-party partners."
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch has officially notified the public about the incident, confirming: "An accident involving a light aircraft which occurred today (3 February) 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 remain at the location as the investigation continues to unfold, with authorities working diligently to piece together the sequence of events that led to this aviation incident.
