Stunt plane pilot dies after vulture crashes through windscreen mid-flight

Tributes have poured in for a "fantastic" stunt pilot who died in Spain after a vulture smashed through the windscreen in a horrific accident.

Olivier Masurel, 42, died on Sunday while flying back to Madrid after participating in an airshow in San Javier, in the south-east province of Murcia.

The tragedy took place near Alcazar de San Juan in the central Spanish province of Ciudad Real.

The Spanish-French national's plane caught burst into flames after hitting the ground, with pictures released first responders showing the scorched wreckage of the aircraft.

Firefighters from Alcazar de San Juan were scrambled to the scene on Sunday following reports of a light-aircraft accident.

READ MORE: Pilot’s chilling final words moments before 265 killed in horror plane crash

A spokesperson for a regional government emergency response coordination centre said: “The plane caught fire after hitting the ground next to the CM-3012 road, causing the death of the pilot and sole occupant of the aircraft.”

Olivier was crowned Spanish Unlimited Aerobatic Flight Champion last July and competed for Spain at the 31st FAI World Aerobatic Championships in August 2022.

Tributes to the stunt ace abounded, with Jim Bourke, owner of US based Southeast Aero Services, writing: “My friend, I am sad that your number came up.

“I hate this for you and for everyone who loved you. I bet everyone who knew you is heartbroken, because there just aren't a lot of people in the world as entertaining as you.

“But I'm thinking of all the great memories I have of you, and all the hilarious pictures we took together, and all the great meals we ate, and all the stories of our time together.

“For those who didn't know him, Olivier was witty and charming, with a strong work ethic and polite demeanour.

“He was of course a fantastic pilot, but he was so humble and giving that you would never hear a word about his talent from him.

“He was one of those people who just demanded excellence from himself and everyone who worked with him, but he always found a way to word advice and criticism in a supportive way.

He added: “Olivier could tell you ‘you have to do better" and mean it, but it wouldn't sting. A true coach."

DON'T MISS 

MH370 search could be restarted as new proposal put forward by robotics firm [REPORT]

Pilot's chilling last nine words before plane crashed into the Atlantic [INSIGHT]

Jet2 passengers' holiday 'ruined' as they're flown to Menorca instead of Majorca [LATEST]

The San Javier Airshow said in a statement: “We are heartbroken by the news of the fatal accident Olivier Masurel, an acrobatic pilot who participated in the air festival, suffered.

“A vulture smashed into his cockpit and he died. The accident happened after the festival finished a few minutes before he returned to his destination. We accompany his family and friends in this sad loss.

“Flying has been Olivier’s passion and this fatal accident has cost him his life. Fly high dear Olivier.”

A spokesperson for Matilla de los Canos aerodrome in Valladolid, noting that contrary to intial reports he had been on his way to Cuatro Vientos Airport, Madrid, rather than their aerodrome said: “We are deeply saddened by your loss Olivier.

“Much loved and respected by all, he had his second home here. Rest in peace Olivier.”