THEY TRAVELLED ACROSS AUSTRALIA TO BRING HOME THEIR DREAM PLANE — BUT NEVER MADE IT BACK

Pilot Revel Downing, 58, and his 63-year-old companion were flying home in a newly purchased aircraft when their journey ended in tragedy near Scone, New South Wales.

What should have been an exciting journey to bring a newly purchased aircraft home became a heartbreaking loss for two families.

Western Australian pilot Revel Downing, 58, and his friend, William Simons, 63, died when the light aircraft they were travelling in crashed near Scone, in New South Wales, on October 16, 2026.

The pair had reportedly travelled to collect the aircraft and were making their way back when the fatal incident occurred.

For their loved ones, a journey connected to a shared interest in aviation has ended in unimaginable grief.

A Journey That Never Reached Its Destination

Buying an aircraft can represent years of enthusiasm, planning and anticipation for those passionate about flying. The trip home should have marked the beginning of a new chapter for the two men.

Instead, their aircraft came down shortly after take-off, cutting their journey tragically short.

Emergency services responded to the crash site, but neither man survived.

Friends and family are now left to process the sudden loss of two people whose lives ended far from home.

Investigators Search for Answers

Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the crash.

The aircraft was reported to be an Aeropup light aircraft that had recently been purchased. At this stage, the cause of the crash has not been established, and investigators will need to examine the available evidence before drawing conclusions.

It is important not to speculate about mechanical problems, pilot error or other possible causes until the investigation provides clearer answers.

Remembering the People Behind the Headlines

For those grieving, Revel Downing and William Simons were more than the names in a news report. They were people with families, friendships and plans for the future.

Their deaths are a painful reminder of how quickly an ordinary journey can turn into a life-changing tragedy.

As investigators work to understand what happened near Scone, their loved ones face the difficult task of saying goodbye.

May Revel Downing and William Simons rest in peace, and may their families and friends find strength and comfort in the days ahead.🕊️ Two lives lost, two families grieving, and a journey that ended far too soon.