Jake Anastas identified as third pilot killed in mid-air collision in Sydney’s south-west

·

Jake Anastas, 29, has been identified as the third pilot killed in a mid-air plane crash in Sydney’s south-west on Saturday, October 26.

Mr Anastas was completing his commercial pilot’s licence training when the crash happened around Belimbla Park near Oakdale on Saturday.

The 29-year-old’s wife Tori told 9NEWS Mr Anastas was a “remarkable husband” who “had a tremendous impact on everyone in his life.”

The aircraft crashed in bushland near Oakdale after colliding midair.
The aircraft crashed in bushland near Oakdale after colliding midair. Photo: ABC News.

“He was my best friend and my world. He loved flying and made everything brighter, he always made me feel like I could soar with him,” she said.

Mr Anastas was one of three men who died when two light planes collided and crashed into bushland before midday on Saturday. The other two men who died were off-duty Qantas captain Gary Criddle, 72, who was instructing Mr Anastas, and Khadervali Gagguturu, 60, who was the pilot in the second aircraft.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the crash.

Source: 9NEWS

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Memorial service held in Sydney for 113th anniversary of Ioannina’s liberation

On Sunday, February 15, the Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW held a memorial service marking the 113th anniversary of the Liberation of Ioannina.

Modern Greek and more: Discover Kingsgrove North High School at Open Night 2026

Families across Sydney’s south-west are invited to discover Kingsgrove North High School at its Open Night 2026 on Tuesday, February 24.

Sydney to host official Greek Language Certificate exams at Macquarie University

The examinations for the Certificate of Attainment in the Greek language in Sydney will take place at Macquarie University.

Democracy and fascism: Yanis Varoufakis in conversation at Greek Festival of Sydney

The Greek Festival of Sydney has announced it will be hosting economist, politician and bestselling author Yanis Varoufakis.

Council responds after parking fines spark backlash at St Charalambos Greek Festival

Dozens of parking fines issued during the St Charalambos Greek Festival in Templestowe have sparked anger among attendees and organisers.

You May Also Like

Clemton Park in NSW tops Australia’s Greek-speaking suburbs

Clemton Park has emerged as the nation’s top Greek-speaking area, with almost one in five households using Greek at home.

Much-loved Sydney priest Father Nicholas Bozikis passes away

Much-loved Father Nicholas Bozikis from Sydney has passed away at the age of 79. Read more via The Greek Herald.

Socrates Tsourdalakis’ book launch celebrated legacy of Cretan courage in Australia

In a tribute to the Cretan diaspora in Australia, Socrates Tsourdalakis launched his book 'Cretan Pioneers of Australia' in Victoria.