The aviation community and a grieving family are in mourning after a tragic light aircraft crash claimed the life of a pilot who had recently departed from Birmingham Airport. Arian Abbasi, a 36-year-old pilot from Harrow, died alongside another man when his Cirrus SR20 aircraft crashed in Littleborough, near Rochdale, on Tuesday morning.
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute to a Devoted Father
In an emotional statement released to the public, the family of Arian Abbasi have paid a moving tribute to a man they describe as a cornerstone of their lives. They remember him as a deeply loving father and a devoted husband whose world revolved around his family and friends.
"He lived his life for his family and friends, giving them his constant love, strength, and support," the family expressed. Their words paint a picture of a man whose personal and professional lives were both filled with promise and dedication.
A Promising Aviation Career Cut Short
Tragically, the crash occurred just weeks before Arian was due to embark on an exciting new chapter in his aviation career. His family confirmed that he was set to begin a new position with a commercial airline on February 23rd.
"Flying was his passion, and he was on the brink of beginning an exciting new chapter with a commercial airline on 23 February; a dream he had worked toward with immense pride and determination," the family's tribute continued. This poignant detail underscores the profound loss felt not only by his loved ones but also within the professional flying community.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The aircraft had taken off from Birmingham Airport (BHX) at approximately 10am on Tuesday, February 3rd. Shortly after 11am, it crashed into fields in the Littleborough area of Rochdale. A significant emergency service response was dispatched to the farmland site.
Despite the efforts of responders, both men on board were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have confirmed that there is no belief of anyone else being on the aircraft and have reported no injuries to people on the ground.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, Greater Manchester Police have issued a specific appeal to the public. Officers are searching for a component of the aircraft's parachute system that has not yet been located.
The missing device is described as measuring roughly 10 cm in diameter and 30 cm long, with a red anodised finish, weighing less than 2 kg. It may have a silver metal collar attached. Due to the challenging terrain and the potential wide dispersal area, locating it has proven difficult.
The police have issued a clear warning: "Please do not handle the device if you see it. If discovered, contact the police immediately via 101 or our Live Chat, quoting log 1056 of 03/02/26." This appeal highlights the meticulous nature of the ongoing investigation as authorities work to understand the full circumstances of this devastating event.
