Tragic Aircraft Crash at Derbyshire Racetrack Claims Two Lives
Investigation launched following light aircraft crash at Darley Moor racetrack.
Two men were confirmed dead after a light aircraft crashed at Darley Moor racetrack near Ashbourne, Derbyshire, on Tuesday, around 11:30 AM. Emergency services promptly responded to the incident, advising the public to avoid the area while first responders were on the scene.
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) is conducting a formal investigation into the crash.
A multidisciplinary team of inspectors has been dispatched to the site to gather information and assess the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Derbyshire police issued a statement confirming the fatalities, stating, "Two men have died after a light aircraft crashed at Darley Moor racetrack.
The incident happened at about 11:30 AM today.
Emergency services remain at the scene, and we ask that the public avoid the area at this time.
Family members of the two men have been made aware, and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time."
In a subsequent announcement, the AAIB confirmed that they have been notified of the accident and have initiated their investigation process.
In response to the incident, flying restrictions were implemented, prohibiting aircraft from flying below 1,600 feet (488 meters) over the Darley Moor area, according to an order signed by the transport secretary.
These restrictions do not apply to aircraft operating under specific permissions granted by the Derbyshire Constabulary.
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service reported being alerted at 11:25 AM regarding the light aircraft incident.
Fire crews from several stations, including Ashbourne, Wirksworth, Nottingham Road, Staveley, and Uttoxeter from Staffordshire, were deployed to the scene.
As the situation developed, the fire service scaled back their resources but maintained a presence with firefighters from Ashbourne and Wirksworth to support the police.
Darley Moor racetrack markets itself as a "small friendly club" that organises motorcycle road racing events from March to October each year.
Reports indicate that the crashed aircraft came to rest near a wooded area of the racetrack, and recovery operations for the deceased are ongoing.