Pilatus PC9 Went Down Near The Galway-Mayo Border

An Irish Air Corps instructor and cadet were killed when the Pilatus PC9 they were flying went down in rugged terrain near the Galway-Mayo border Monday. The plane was taking part in training exercises with two other aircraft.

Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying low over the village Cornamona, in Connemara before hearing the sound of impact with the ground. They said it appeared that the pilot was attempting a emergency landing when the accident occurred. The other two airplanes returned to Galway airport.

Sky News reports the Irish Aviation Authority dispatched investigators to the scene of the crash. The victims have been identified as Captain Derek Furniss, 32, and Cadet David Jevens, 22.

The crash site had to be secured by bomb disposal personnel before investigators could begin to determine the cause of the accident.

File Photo Courtesy Irish Air Corps

Defence Minister Willie O'Dea told Sky News "I am receiving regular updates from the chief of staff of the Defence Forces on the unfolding situation. My thoughts and prayers are with the two men and their families at this time."

FMI: www.iaa.ie