An ‘inspiring’ pilot who died when his light aircraft crashed into a field just days before Christmas has been named and pictured for the first time.
Nicholas Denison-Pender, 50, from Perthshire, was pronounced dead at the scene after the aircraft crashed near Fife Airport, Kinglassie on Monday.
His plane plummeted from the sky just moments after take-off, slamming into the ground at about 11.40am.
No one else was injured in the tragedy, officials have confirmed.
It’s not yet known what caused the crash.
Police Scotland, which released the picture of Mr Denison-Pender today, said inquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the disaster continue.
Detective Inspector Samantha Davidson said: ‘Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Nicholas as they come to terms with their loss.
‘The family have asked for their privacy at this difficult time.
‘An investigation into the circumstances of the crash remains ongoing and we would ask for anyone with information to please come forward.’
Mr Denison-Pender joined automotive research and consultancy firm SDB Automotive in 2024 as their chief operating officer.
Tributes have since poured out in memory of Mr Denison-Pender, with colleagues praising his ‘inspiring balance of passion, kindness, and intelligence’.
A statement on the company’s website said being a private pilot was his ‘passion’ and he also enjoyed outdoor pursuits with his family and fishing.
Andrew Hart, chief executive of automotive research and consultancy firm SBD Automotive, said: ‘We are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden loss of our friend and colleague, Nicholas Denison-Pender.
‘Our thoughts are with his family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
‘Although Nick had only been at SBD Automotive for a few months, he brought an inspiring balance of passion, kindness, and intelligence that made a lasting impact on all who spent time with him.’
Police and other emergency services – including Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and a helicopter from the Coastguard – were scrambled after the crash.
As previously reported, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said earlier: ‘We were alerted at 11.38am on Monday December 23, to an incident involving a light aircraft near Kinglassie, Fife.
‘Operations Control mobilised two appliances and a heavy rescue unit to the scene to assist emergency services partners.’
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch confirmed it has sent a team of investigators following the incident.
It said: ‘An investigation has begun into an accident involving a light aircraft which occurred near Fife Airport on 23 December 2024.
‘A team of inspectors are travelling to the accident site to make enquiries and gather evidence as part of the process of conducting a safety investigation.’
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 1136 of December 23.
Fife Airport has been contacted for comment.
