Two dead after light aircraft crash in Littleborough as investigation launched
Two men have died after a light aircraft crashed onto farmland in Littleborough, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed.
Emergency services were called shortly after 11am today to reports that a plane had come down in a rural area of Rochdale.
Officers said the bodies of two men were recovered at the scene and they were pronounced dead.
It is not believed anyone else was on board and there are no reported injuries on the ground.
Chief Superintendent Danny Inglis, from GMP’s Rochdale district, said: “This is a devastating incident where two people have lost their lives and our thoughts are with their families and friends.
“We have been working closely with emergency service colleagues and partner agencies throughout the day to establish the full circumstances and we will be on scene overnight and into tomorrow.
“There will be an enhanced presence as officers and investigators comprehensively survey the area and ensure all available evidence is recovered.
“If anyone has any information, or witnessed the crash, we would urge you to get in touch with us.”
Police believe the aircraft was a Cirrus light plane that had taken off earlier in the morning from Birmingham.
A cordon remains in place while investigators continue enquiries, with officers expected to stay at the scene overnight.
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) arrived on Tuesday evening and has launched a formal investigation.
National Grid engineers have also attended to support the emergency response and make the area safe. The company confirmed there is no disruption to electricity supplies.
Police said residents may experience minor disruption over the coming hours and thanked the community for its patience.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 101 or Live Chat at gmp.police.uk, quoting log 1056 of 03/02/26.