South Australia has been rocked by a devastating aviation tragedy that claimed the life of a promising young pilot, Lucas Di Biase, along with two other individuals. The 20-year-old from Pasadena has been identified as the third person killed in a horrific light plane crash off the state's south coast.
A Fatal Flight Ends in Tragedy
The accident occurred around 4.30pm on Friday when a Cessna light plane spun out of control and nosedived into the waters off Goolwa South. Shocked witnesses watched helplessly as local surf lifesavers battled challenging waves to reach the downed aircraft in a desperate search for survivors. Despite their swift response, all three people onboard were found dead.
Remembering a Passionate Aviator
Lucas Di Biase was flying with two trainee pilots - 53-year-old Morphett Vale man Leo Howard and 18-year-old Tristan Scheffers. In a heartbreaking family statement, Lucas's mother Koula revealed that her son wasn't originally scheduled to be on that fateful flight.
"Lucas was not meant to be on the flight on Friday but never hesitated to jump in the back seat of another flight as he's done many times before," said Koula, speaking on behalf of herself, Lucas's father Louis, and sister Isabella.
The family described the loss as "an unimaginable tragedy" that has taken "such an accomplished young man with the world at his feet."
A Lifelong Dream Cut Short
According to his grieving family, Lucas had dreamed of becoming a pilot since he was a toddler. His passion for aviation drove him to excel in his studies and training.
"All you ever wanted to do since you were a toddler was to become a pilot," the family statement continued. "You were so passionate about flying. You worked so hard, graduated at the top of your class, was mentoring student pilots and booked to fly to Darwin on Monday to follow your dreams."
A Beloved Son and Brother
Lucas has been remembered as a "funny, smart and fearless" young man who was loved by everyone who met him, including the wider aviation community. His family expressed their profound devastation and uncertainty about how to move forward without him.
"We are so devastated and can't believe you're gone," the statement read. "We don't know how we are supposed to carry on without you. We'll miss your daily calls, your conversations, your laughter and the joy you brought to us. We'll try to stay strong for your sister."
The family concluded their tribute with emotional words: "We love you so much. Forever in our hearts. Forever 20. Fly high our beautiful boy."
Investigation Underway
The crash remains under active investigation by authorities. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau will conduct a thorough examination that includes:
- Interviewing witnesses to the tragic incident
- Examining the wreckage recovered from the waters
- Analysing flight track data and aircraft records
- Reviewing maintenance documentation
A comprehensive report will be prepared for the coroner as part of the official investigation process. The aviation community and local residents continue to mourn the loss of three lives in this tragic accident that has highlighted the risks and realities of flight training and recreational aviation.
