Police halt search for pilot Bob Bramley and plane wreckage in Australia
Northern Territory Police in Australia have halted the search-and-recovery operation for 23-year-old pilot Bob Bramley and the wreckage of an aircraft that, according to preliminary information, crashed in waters near Groote Eylandt in the Gulf of Carpentaria. The pilot is still considered missing, and police believe he may have died as a result of the crash.
The search lasted several days
As ABC News Australia reports, the decision was made after reviewing all available information. Police said that aircraft, marine and specialised diving resources were used in the multi-day operation. The search coordinator said officers had considered and carried out all reasonable search options.
According to the source, Bramley was likely the only person aboard a small charter aircraft operated by Air Frontier. The aircraft reportedly crashed in waters near Angurugu, off the coast of Groote Eylandt, on Tuesday. The company said the pilot was conducting a non-commercial ferry flight from Gove to Numbulwar.
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Aircraft fragments found on the seabed
On the fourth day of the operation, searchers scaled back the aerial search, focusing on sonar surveys and targeted dives. Police divers found wreckage on the seabed that they believe may be parts of the aircraft.
Acting Northern Territory Police Assistant Commissioner Peter Mallett said the search was complicated by the presence of tiger sharks and crocodiles. Local Anindilyakwa Land and Sea Rangers also assisted with the operation. The cause of the crash has not yet been established, and police continue their investigation.
