Pilot killed after two light planes collide in Australia

A pilot has died after two light aircraft collided mid-air in Sydney’s south-west on Sunday morning. Emergency services were called to Napper Field in Wedderburn around 11:50 am following reports of the crash.

The two Van’s RV-7 aircraft were part of a formation flight involving four planes. According to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), one plane landed safely while the other collided with terrain, fatally injuring the pilot.

ATSB investigators are on site to examine the wreckage, recover components for analysis, and interview witnesses, including the remaining pilots from the formation flight.

The investigation will also review air traffic control and flight tracking data, aircraft maintenance records, and weather conditions. A preliminary report is expected in about two months, with a final report to follow upon completion of the investigation.

John Taru, a member of the Wedderburn chapter of the NSW Sport Aircraft Club, described the incident as “upsetting” and said the planes were performing routine formation flying. He explained that the collision occurred on a “choppy” day, causing one aircraft to pull away, followed by the second.

The ATSB has requested anyone with footage or information about the incident to contact the authority through its website.