Former Qantas pilot, 72, named as one of three killed in light plane ...

Grandfather Gary Criddle, 72, known by his friends and family as 'Gaz', was one of two men aboard the Cessna which left Cessnock bound for Shellharbour Airport yesterday.

He had flown for Qantas for 36 years, his family said.

He also spent 20 years in the Navy and Airforce, his family said, where he was a member of The Roulettes display team.

"We're absolutely devastated beyond words and in total shock by this tragic loss. Gary, affectionately known as Gaz, was a very much loved husband, father, grandfather and aviator," his family said in a statement.

"He was a mentor to many aspiring pilots and an avid adventurer with plans to sail the world. Gaz was full of fun, laughter and generosity. His loss is immeasurable and he will be deeply missed."

Qantas Chief Pilot Richard Tobiano said in a statement the airline was "deeply upset," and would be supporting his family, friends and colleagues.

"Captain Gary Criddle was a highly respected and loved member of the Qantas flying community," Tobiano said.

The collision of Jabiru and Cessna 182 planes prompted a major emergency response in the vicinity of Belimbla Park near Oakdale in Sydney's rural south-west on Saturday just before midday.

Two men died on board one plane, while a pilot lost his life in the second aircraft.

The Rural Fire Service worked to contain the flames before crews could reach the wreckage.

Authorities are investigating.