NSWFB Hazmat crews called to plane crash near Wee Waa

Published: 26th February 2008

NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) firefighters from Wee Waa and Narrabri, including hazardous material (hazmat) specialists, responded to the scene of a plane crash at 9.41am today.

Two crop dusters were involved in a mid-air collision near Tindalls Lane, seven kilometres from Wee Waa. One plane was engulfed in flames, and the other plane was severely damaged with the pilot taken to hospital by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. The other pilot is still trapped in the wreckage.

NSWFB firefighters are using specialist hazmat equipment to monitor the impact of crop-dusting chemicals released as a result of the collision. Firefighters are also monitoring a fuel leak.

Firefighters will continue to monitor the area exposed to chemicals and fuel to ensure the safety of residents and the protection of the environment.

The NSWFB manages all of the state's hazardous material emergencies, which includes chemical, biological or radiological emergencies ranging from industrial accidents to terrorist threats.