Full Breakdown
Two Killed and Ten Injured in Hangar Crash at Adelaide’s Parafield Airport
4/30/2026, 6:51:17 AM
Crash at Parafield Airport
On 29 April 2026 at about 14:10 AEST, a twin-engine Diamond DA42 struck the roof of a flight-training hangar at Parafield Airport, Adelaide. The impact ignited aviation fuel, producing a large fire and thick black smoke. Police, fire crews and paramedics responded, and the airfield was closed while the blaze was extinguished.
Airport Background
Parafield Airport, a general-aviation hub in Adelaide’s north, hosts several flight-training schools and ranks among Australia’s busiest airports by movements. The facility has previously seen training-related incidents, such as a student-pilot crash in January 2026.
Timeline of the Incident
The aircraft was reported near Kings Road at 14:10 AEST and collided with the hangar. The area was evacuated, fire crews arrived, and the blaze spread. Within minutes two fatalities were confirmed and ten people – including one with life-threatening burns – were hospitalized. The airport announced closure later that afternoon; an ATSB team began an on-site investigation on 30 April.
Casualties and Aircraft Details
Two people – reported as a pilot and passenger in some accounts and as an instructor and student, ages 24 and 29, in others – died. Injuries were reported for nine to ten individuals, including at least one serious burn. The aircraft was a four-seat Diamond DA42. Five aircraft were stored in the hangar, three of which were damaged.
Official Responses
South Australia Police called the crash a tragic situation for those involved and the community. Premier Peter Malinauskas expressed sympathy for families, confirmed ATSB mobilisation and thanked first responders. The Metropolitan Fire Service reported the fire was extinguished and praised the rapid emergency response. ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said the investigation will examine the event sequence and possible causes, noting the aircraft was on circuit training. Police Commissioner Grant Stevens highlighted the impact on families and the need for a thorough inquiry.
Conflicting Reports
Sources differ on the victims’ identities – some say pilot and passenger, others instructor and student – and on the injury count, reporting nine or ten injured. The aircraft’s training status at the time of impact remains under investigation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “(This is a) tragic situation for both the pilot and the passenger, also for the local Parafield community,” — Chief Inspector Andrew McCracken
- “My thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who have passed away, and with everyone affected by this devastating event,” — Premier Peter Malinauskas
- “This was a terrible incident that's having a massive impact on so many families," he told 891 ABC Adelaide.” — Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
Next Steps
The ATSB will conduct an on-site examination over three to four days. Parafield Airport stays closed while investigations continue, and authorities have asked for any dash-cam or mobile footage. Ongoing medical care for the injured and support for families are coordinated by emergency services.
