Tributes Paid to West London Men Killed in Light Aircraft Crash Near Rochdale
Two men from West London have been named as the victims of a tragic light aircraft crash that occurred on farmland near Rochdale in Greater Manchester last week. The families of both individuals have released moving tributes, describing them as beloved members of their communities.
Victims Identified as Community Pillars
Mustafa Qays Obadey, aged 39 and from Greenford, London, was one of the two men who lost their lives in the incident. In a tribute issued on Monday, his family remembered him as "the most humble, kind man you'll ever meet" and "the glue of the family and community." They added that he was "a man made of peace" who was always available and accepting of everyone.
The other victim was pilot Arian Abbasi, aged 36 and from Harrow, London. His family described him as a "deeply loving father and a devoted husband." Mr Abbasi had been due to start a new position with a commercial airline later this month, fulfilling "a dream he had worked toward with immense pride and determination."
Details of the Aviation Accident
The crash involved a private Cirrus SR20 light aircraft, which went down in Littleborough, near Rochdale. The aircraft had taken off from Birmingham Airport's XLR Executive Jet Centre at approximately 10am on Tuesday, crashing nearly an hour later. Both men were on board at the time of the accident.
Greater Manchester Police are continuing their investigations into the crash, working alongside specialist investigators from the Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB). It is understood that the deployment of a parachute, which later became entangled with a nearby pylon, is also being examined as part of the ongoing probe.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Individuals can contact police on 101 or use the live chat feature on the Greater Manchester Police website, quoting log number 1056 of 03/02/26. The investigation remains active as officials work to determine the precise cause of the crash.
This tragic event has deeply affected the local communities in West London and beyond, with both families expressing their profound grief and gratitude for the support they have received during this difficult time.
