Pilot Dies in Light Aircraft Crash in Derbyshire

A pilot has tragically lost his life following a light aircraft crash at an industrial estate in Derbyshire. Emergency services responded to reports of the incident, which occurred on Sunday morning, September 1.

The aircraft came down on land off Sheepbridge Lane, Chesterfield, shortly after 09:00 BST. Emergency responders, including firefighters from Chesterfield, Clay Cross, and Staveley, were quickly deployed to the scene, accompanied by Derbyshire Police and the East Midlands Ambulance Service.

Authorities have confirmed that the pilot, a 71-year-old man, was the only person onboard and that his family has been notified of the tragic outcome. An ongoing investigation is being conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

In a statement, Derbyshire Police noted that the roads in the immediate vicinity of the crash site are closed and will remain shut for an extended period. The Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has requested that the public avoid the area while emergency services manage the situation.

At approximately 11:30 BST, the fire service concluded their operations at the scene and transferred responsibility to the police. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has also launched its own investigation into the incident. A team of inspectors has been dispatched to gather evidence and conduct inquiries regarding the crash.

According to flight-tracking data, the light aircraft, identified as an Evektor SportStar, took off from Coal Aston airfield near Dronfield. Reports indicate that the aircraft circled the village of Old Whittington twice before descending.