A tragic incident unfolded over Sydney’s outer suburbs on November 30, 2025, when a mid-air collision between two light aircraft resulted in the untimely death of one pilot. The unfortunate event occurred during a formation flight, sending one of the planes hurtling into bushland near Wedderburn Airport, a southwestern suburb of Sydney.
Emergency Response and Fatal Discovery
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the crash site, where they discovered the body of the sole pilot aboard the downed aircraft. New South Wales state police confirmed the fatality, stating that two light planes had reportedly collided before one crashed. The other aircraft involved in the incident managed to land safely back at Wedderburn airfield, with its pilot emerging uninjured from the ordeal.
ATSB Investigation Underway for Van's RV-7 Aircraft
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched a thorough investigation into the collision. Both planes were identified as Van’s RV-7 aircraft, which are two-seater, single-engine homebuilt kit planes. These types of aircraft are popular among enthusiasts for their performance and customizability.
Details of the Formation Flight
According to initial reports filed with the ATSB, the collision transpired as a formation of four aircraft was making its return to Wedderburn Airport. Tragically, one of the planes involved in the collision subsequently impacted the terrain, leading to the pilot's fatal injuries, while the other successfully completed its landing, averting further disaster.
This incident casts a somber light on the inherent risks involved in aerial activities, even within controlled formation flights. The ATSB’s inquiry will aim to uncover the precise circumstances that led to this fatal mid-air encounter, providing crucial insights to prevent future tragedies and enhance aviation safety protocols.
