A tragic plane crash in Camden, Australia, claimed the life of a 16-year-old student pilot as he embarked on his first solo flight. Chkye Tracz was a talented musician, school captain, and aspiring pilot who was training for his recreational pilot’s license when the fatal incident occurred. Taking off from Camden airport in Sydney’s south-west, Chkye encountered trouble mid-flight, losing contact with air traffic control and crashing into a paddock in Brownlow Hill. The young pilot’s death marked the second tragedy to hit his school, Chevalier College, in just a few weeks.
Chkye was described as an exceptional student, excelling in academics and representing his school in various scholastic contests. He was also known for his musical talents, playing the bugle at ANZAC and Remembrance day ceremonies. His passion for aviation ran in the family, with his father being an avid pilot and his grandfather having a background in the Canadian Armed Forces. The family’s love for planes extended to building model aircrafts, a hobby that Chkye shared with his father.
The news of Chkye’s tragic death left the school community reeling from back-to-back tragedies, following the passing of one of his schoolmates, Violet Chanter, earlier in the month. Chevalier College expressed deep sorrow over the loss of two bright young souls, offering support to students and staff as they grieve the heartbreaking incidents.
In response to the accident, AltoCap Flight School has grounded its fleet while authorities conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has deployed a team of transport safety investigators to gather evidence and conduct a thorough probe of the incident. As the community mourns the loss of these young lives, the investigation seeks to shed light on the factors contributing to the tragic plane crash.