An aviation hangar in Temora Airpark Estate is under police investigation following an early morning fire. Photos: Fire and Rescue NSW.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding an aircraft hangar fire that destroyed a plane and much of the contents of the hangar.
Around 30 firefighters battled the blaze for nearly two hours after an aircraft caught fire inside the hangar in the Riverina.
Emergency services were called to the Temora Airpark Estate last Wednesday (9 April) at 2:49 am following reports of a fire.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) said its crew from Temora rushed to the scene and faced a fire within the structure and a large pile of timber alight on the side of the hangar.
“A crew wearing breathing apparatus was assigned to battle the timber fire,” a FRNSW spokesperson said.
“Another crew was tasked with suppressing flames at the hangar entrance to allow firefighters to enter and respond to an aircraft that had caught fire, amongst other equipment.
“Firefighters also tended to the site’s owner, who had become affected by smoke inhalation while attacking the fire with a garden hose. He was treated by ambulance paramedics.
Additional resources, including an FRNSW Hazmat team, energy technicians, NSW Police, NSW Ambulance and the RFS were in attendance.
While fighting the blaze, one of the fire crews discovered and protected several acetylene cylinders and two drums of aviation fuel in the middle of the hangar.
The firefighters had assistance from Cootamundra, Wagga Wagga and Harden crews, and the RFS.
They withdrew to a safer, defensive position and firefighters gained control at about 4:30 am.
While the owners got out safely, their possessions could not be saved.
The site was handed over to FRNSW and police investigators.
Good luck, we have always had very good service and I'm sure it will continue View