A SKYDIVING instructor has been tragically killed in a “death spiral” plane crash just minutes after eight people safely jumped from his aircraft.
Paul Smith, a 54-year-old pilot was returning to Moryua Airport in New South Wales, Australia on Saturday when his plane smashed into bushland.
Paul Smith, a 54-year-old pilot was returning to Moruya Airport after conducting a skydiving drop
He has successfully led a skydive before his tragic death
He had been leading a skydive for eight others, who had all successfully landed just minutes before he crashed, cops said.
Mr Smith was just 2km away from his destination when his plane tragically careered into the bushland.
He died at the scene.
NSW cops and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau launched an urgent investigation into the crash – including, searching the site.
Police Inspector Justin Marks confirmed the aircraft struck “thick bushland” adjacent to George bass drive.
The Australian Parachute Federation (APF) has paid an emotional tribute to a “respected member” of the skydiving community.
Mr Smith had previously won the organisation’s highest honour following a staggering four decades in the industry, ABC reports.
The firm’s CEO Stephen Porter said: “We are deeply saddened by this news.
“Paul was awarded the Master of Sport Parachuting in December 2024 for his positive and lasting contribution over many years.
“An award like that only comes around once a blue moon.”