Second pilot identified after two light planes collided over Sydney, killing three people

The family of the co-pilot who died in a light plane crash in Sydney’s southwest have described him as a “fearless, brilliant and, above all, generous and loving man with a heart of gold”.

Khadervali Gagguturu, 60, was flying one of the light planes that collided in mid-air in Belimbla Park on Saturday.

He is one of three men who died in the accident.

Khadervali Gagguturu holding a cat — Mr Gagguturu was described as a “generous” man who will be missed by everyone who knew him. (Delivered)

In a statement to ABC News, his son Saleem said those who knew him were “devastated” by his death.

“He did everything he could to help anyone and everyone,” he said.

“My mother, brother and I love him very much and his loss has left us, all our family and friends, devastated and heartbroken.

“Even though he was a very intelligent mechanic, programmer and pilot, his life’s passion was flying, and he died doing what he loved.

“We will miss him forever.”

Khadervali Gagguturu smiles with a blue bird on his shoulder — Gagguturu was one of three men who died in the crash after two light planes collided in mid-air. (Delivered)

Qantas pilot identified as first victim

On Sunday, it was confirmed that veteran Qantas pilot Gary Criddle was also a victim of the crash.

The family remembered him as a “very loved husband, father, grandfather and aviator.”

“We are completely devastated and completely shocked by this tragic loss,” they said in a statement.

Garry Criddle and a woman stand shoulder to shoulder and smile in front of a Qantas plane. — Qantas pilot Gary Criddle also died in the crash. (Delivered)

“Gary was an extremely experienced pilot with 36 years with Qantas and 20 years in the Navy and Air Force.

“He was a mentor to many aspiring pilots and an avid adventurer with plans to circumnavigate the world,” they said.

“The show was full of fun, laughter and generosity. His loss is immeasurable and he will be greatly missed.”

The third man, who died at the scene alongside Criddle and Gagguturu, has not been identified.

On Monday afternoon, investigators from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau remained on the scene, collecting forensic evidence from two crash sites in an attempt to determine what went wrong.

One of the planes was flying from Cessnock to Wollongong and the other from The Oaks Airport.