The two men on board the aircraft which crashed in Co Offaly today have been pronounced dead at the scene this evening.
The pilot was in his 30’s and the other man was in his 20’s.
Investigations are continuing.
Press Release below refers.
Garda Press office
Aircraft Accident - Birr Co Offaly Sunday 11th November 2012
Gardaí at Birr Co Offaly are investigating the circumstances of a light aircraft accident this afternoon (Sunday 11th November 2012)
Gardaí were notified at approximately 4.50pm today that all contact had been lost between Air Traffic Control and the aircraft. A search commenced and at 6.30pm with the assistance of the Garda Air Support and other emergency services the wreckage of a Cessna Light Training Aircraft was discovered at Clonkelly Upper, Birr, Co Offaly.
Emergency services immediately attended the scene which is currently preserved.
There are two male casualties on board.
The Air Accident Investigation Unit (Dept of Transport) have been notified.
Further developments will be reported.
Garda Press Office