Family of New Zealand Pilot Glen Conning Mourns the Loss of a Beloved Husband and Father

JAYAPURA—The family of Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand helicopter pilot who was killed in Papua, Indonesia, has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a loving husband and father.

Glen Conning, aged 50, was reportedly killed when the helicopter he was flying was attacked by a pro-independence group known as the Free Papua Movement. The incident occurred as the helicopter was landing in Alama, Mimika Regency, Central Papua Province, with four passengers on board, all of whom were reported to be safe.

In a statement issued by Natasha Conning on behalf of the family and cited by RNZ Pacific on Tuesday, they shared that Glen was deeply loved by his family and friends. They remembered him as a caring individual who always prioritized his loved ones when he wasn’t flying or enjoying the outdoors.

The family also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and love they have received but requested that their privacy be respected during this period of mourning.

Alumni of St. Peter’s School in Cambridge, where Conning was educated, also paid tribute to Glen, recalling him as a dedicated sportsman.

In a Facebook post on the St. Peter’s alumni page, it was mentioned that Glen attended the school from 1988 to 1991. “Glen served as Head of Broadhurst House in 1990 and was a very active sportsman,” the post read.

The post further noted that Glen captained the under-65kg rugby team in 1989 and later played in the First XV. “We extend our deepest condolences to Glen’s family and friends.”

Conning worked as a pilot for a private company in Papua, frequently transporting passengers to remote areas.