An image has been released of a father and son in the cockpit of a plane before they tragically passed away in freak crash.
Lane Kokshoorn, 30 and his son, 10, reportedly clipped a set of power lines while flying a recreational kit plane and crashed upon impact.
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The father, who had previous pilot experience, was flying the Highlander Rotax 914UL before it crashed into flames at a Lilydale property near Grafton in New South Wales, Australia.
Mr Kokshoorn and his son were tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Now, a chilling photo of the pair smiling together for a selfie has emerged, showing the moment sat in the air craft before take off.
Heartbroken family and friends shared the sweet snap along with their condolences.
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As funeral preparations are being made, the image of the father and son was posted to social media causing an outpouring of love online.
A celebration of their lives,” the online invite reads. “Two beautiful souls shall soar the sky’s (sic) forever.”
“I have no words, so-so sorry to the entire Kokshorns clan. Much love at this tragic time,” one friend wrote on Facebook.
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“Sending all of our love at this incredibly difficult time. Holding you in my thoughts – I’m so sorry,” said another, while a third added: “My heart breaks for you all, I’m so very sorry for the loss of Lane and his baby boy. Much love to you and your family xx.”
Police believe the plane was headed in a westerly direction before the devastating crash took place.
The pair are believed to have stayed overnight at the Southport Flying Club, resting overnight before flying the next day, starting their journey at approximately 9am the following day.
Several emergency response agencies attended the scene, including paramedics, police and the State Emergency Service, but the pair were sadly declared deceased at the scene.
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Acing Inspector Aaron Van Schaik said: “A recreational aircraft clipped a powerline, as a consequence of that then crashed onto the banks of the Clarence River.”
“Unfortunately, the plane caught fire after the impact.”
Steve Rance, aerodrome manager at the Southport Flying Club, paid respects to the “devoted” father, who would come to visit the club “four-to-five times a week”.
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He added Lane and his son were “happy as anything” before departing their fateful trip.
He explained Lane’s son “goes flying with his dad a lot”, and were both “avid aviators.”
“I feel heartbroken for his partner. It’s something she will never get over,” Mr Rance said.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is not investigating the crash.
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However, NSW Police are continuing investigations with assistance from Recreational Aviation Australia
Chelsea Connor