Tasmania police have entered their fourth day of searching for a twin-seater light aircraft that went missing after taking off from the island state of Tasmania, Australia, with two people on board.
The aircraft was carrying a man in his 70s, a woman in her 60s, and their pet dog when it disappeared on August 2, 2025.
On that day, the aircraft took off from George Town Airport (GEE) around 12:45 local time but failed to reach its destination in central New South Wales, prompting family members to inform the authorities.
On August 5, 2025, Tasmania Police officials provided an update, stating that the missing aircraft is a two-seat, single-engine BRM Aero Bristell S-LSA brightly colored in green.
“The two people on the plane have not been in contact with anyone, or aviation authorities, since they left George Town,” Tasmania Police Inspector Nick Clark said.
An extensive search involving the Australian Maritime Safety Authority Challenger jet, Tasmania Police helicopters, and marine vessels has been conducted along Tasmania’s northern coastline and into Bass Strait since the aircraft went missing.
On August 5, 2025, a helicopter crew from Tasmania Police patrolled the northern coastline of the state between George Town and Turners Beach. However, Inspector Clark noted that due to rough water conditions, marine vessels will not be involved in the search efforts.
“Inclement weather is limiting our search options, however we are continuing our efforts to locate the plane and its occupants and will be utilizing the helicopter,” Clark said.
Tasmania Police Northern Commander Marco Ghedini has commended the search teams, which includes officers and volunteers, for their hard work and commitment during the operation.
“As we enter the fourth day of searching, police hold grave concerns for the missing couple, however we maintain hope as the operation continues,” Ghedini said. “Further assessment in relation to the ongoing search will be made in the coming days.”