Malcolm Turnbull (Wentworth, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

I wish to offer the condolences of the parliament to the loved ones of those killed in Victoria's worst civil aviation accident in 30 years. On Tuesday 21 February, just after nine o'clock in the morning, a Beechcraft Super King aircraft crashed shortly after take-off from Essendon Airport. The plane had been chartered by four visitors from the United States and was flown by Max Quartermain, an Australian pilot with over 38 years of flying experience. It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip cut tragically short. Nobody on board survived the impact.

We thank the first responders, who once again selflessly and heroically rushed to the scene. To them we offer our deepest gratitude and respect. Again and again Australians show their finer selves in their first response to these terrible accidents.

The authorities will continue their investigation into the circumstances of the accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those who died, both here in Australia and in the United States. On behalf of the parliament and all Australians we offer our sincere sympathies.

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