Tributes Paid to 'Humble' Pilot and Aspiring Commercial Aviator Killed in Rochdale Crash
The families of two pilots who tragically lost their lives in a small aircraft crash in Greater Manchester have paid heartfelt tributes, describing them as humble and passionate individuals. Mustafa Qays Obadey, aged 39, and Arian Abbasi, aged 36, died on Tuesday, February 3, when their Cirrus light plane crashed into a field in Littleborough, Rochdale.
Emotional Tributes from Grieving Families
In an emotional statement, Mr Obadey's family remembered him as 'the most humble, kind man you'll ever meet' and 'a man made of peace'. They added, 'He was the glue of the family and community, always available and accepting for everyone. Thank you, Mustafa.' This tribute highlights his role as a beloved figure in his personal and social circles.
Meanwhile, Mr Abbasi's relatives revealed that he was on the verge of starting his 'dream job' as a commercial pilot. They said, 'He lived his life for his family and friends, giving them his constant love, strength, and support. Flying was his passion, and he was on the brink of beginning an exciting new chapter with a commercial airline on February 23; a dream he had worked toward with immense pride and determination.' This underscores his dedication to aviation and the promising future that was cut short.
Details of the Fatal Flight
The private aircraft departed from Birmingham Airport's XLR Executive Jet Centre at approximately 10 am on Tuesday. According to tracking website FlightRadar24, it lost signal at 10:38 am, which is likely the time of the crash. Images circulated on social media appear to show a yellow parachute caught on a pylon near the wreckage, suggesting one of the men attempted to evacuate using the plane's parachute system, but did not survive.
Police investigations are ongoing, with officers searching for a part of the parachute system containing the propellant. A force spokesman explained, 'The nature of the terrain, and the wide area over which it may have travelled, has made finding the device very difficult.' The device is described as measuring about 10 cm in diameter and 30 cm in length, with a red anodised finish, weighing less than 2 kg, and possibly having a silver metal collar attached.
Community and Police Response
Chief Superintendent Danny Inglis of Greater Manchester Police's Rochdale district expressed condolences, stating, 'This is a devastating incident where two people have lost their lives, and our thoughts are with their families and friends.' He confirmed that emergency services and partner agencies are working closely to establish the full circumstances, with a continued presence at the scene.
Authorities have advised the public not to handle the propellant if found but to contact police immediately on 101 or through the live chat at gmp.police.uk, quoting log 1056 of 03/02/26. This precaution is due to the potential hazards associated with the device.
The crash has left a profound impact on the local community and aviation circles, as tributes pour in for the two men remembered for their kindness and aspirations.
