Beverley grandfather killed in microlight aircraft crash

A Beverley grandfather has died after the microlight aircraft he was in crashed in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt.

John Willson’s family had been watching the keen aviation enthusiast on a solo flight when the aircraft crashed shortly after 11am on Saturday onto his neighbour’s property in Beverley, located about 130 kilometres south-east of Perth.

Willson sustained critical injuries in the incident and died shortly after.

It is understood the 69-year-old pilot, who had two decades worth of flying experience, lost control of the microlight aircraft a short distance from the Wheatbelt town’s airstrip.

Willson’s daughter Hayley told Nine News Perth her father was a beloved member of the community and a keen aviation enthusiast.

“John was a brilliant musician and inspiration to his family,” she said.

The 69-year-old leaves behind his wife, Marlene, three daughters and four grandchildren.

WA Police Inspector Jason Beesley said it was a terrible situation for the family, who were present at the time.

Beesley said the community were shattered by the incident and would be rallying around the family.

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