Search for Missing Plane Intensifies Along Tasmania's Coast Amid Poor Weather Conditions

A police helicopter is currently scouring Tasmania's northern coastline in a desperate search for a missing light aircraft and its two occupants, who have been missing since Saturday. The plane, which was carrying a couple and their dog, was expected to arrive at Hillston Airport in New South Wales via a stop in Leongatha, Victoria. However, the aircraft never arrived, and no distress signal was received after its departure from George Town Airport at 12:45 PM on Saturday.

Tasmania Police Northern Commander Marco Ghedini confirmed that the search has now entered its fourth day, with grave concerns for the missing couple but still holding onto hope as the operation continues. He stated that further assessments regarding the search will be made in the coming days.

The helicopter is currently patrolling an area between George Town and Turners Beach, while boats have been temporarily grounded due to rough sea conditions. Authorities have not yet formally released the identities of the couple or the specific model of the green-coloured aircraft, though they confirmed the couple is from northern Tasmania, with the man in his 70s and the woman in her 60s.

According to Inspector Nick Clark, the search is being limited by inclement weather, but the police are using the helicopter to continue their efforts to locate the plane and its occupants. He emphasized that time is the biggest challenge in the search, as the operation stretches into its fourth day.

The pilot had reportedly left a flight note with a family member before departure, and the family alerted authorities when the plane failed to arrive in New South Wales. The couple had planned to visit Hillston via a stop in Leongatha, but the journey never completed.

As the search continues, the focus remains on the coastline, with hopes that the plane will be found soon. The situation is being closely monitored, and authorities have reiterated their commitment to finding the missing individuals and their pet dog.

The search highlights the challenges faced by emergency services in extreme weather conditions, where visibility and accessibility are severely limited. The community remains in suspense as the search for the missing couple and their aircraft continues.