Investigators Release Preliminary Findings on Fatal Mid-Air Collision
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has published its first report into the tragic mid-air collision that claimed the life of experienced aerobatics pilot Eddie Seve near Appin. The incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at approximately 12:10pm in the vicinity of Wedderburn Airport.
Details of the Collision
According to the preliminary investigation, the fatal accident involved two amateur-built light aircraft that were part of a formation of four planes returning from a flight. The 64-year-old Mr Seve was piloting a Van's RV-7 single-engine aircraft when it collided with another plane during a turning maneuver. The impact tore off the rear fuselage of Mr Seve's aircraft, causing it to fall and crash into bushland. The other pilot involved in the collision emerged uninjured and managed to land their plane safely.
Formation Flying Procedures Under Scrutiny
The ATSB report indicates that the lead pilot had directed the aircraft to adopt a specific formation pattern, with each plane positioned slightly behind and to the right of the one ahead. This configuration was intended to facilitate sequential turns during the approach to the airport, with three-second intervals between each aircraft. Witness observations suggest that Mr Seve's aircraft executed a tighter turn than the preceding plane, placing it on an intersecting path with the second aircraft in the formation.
ATSB investigators have examined both the wreckage of Mr Seve's plane and the damage sustained by the other aircraft. Their initial assessment found no pre-existing defects in the available control systems, and examination of the propeller indicated that the engine was providing power at the moment of impact. Notably, neither aircraft was equipped with onboard cameras during this particular flight, though both pilots had previously used such recording devices.
Ongoing Investigation Parameters
ATSB chief commissioner Angus Mitchell has confirmed that the investigation will continue to analyze multiple aspects of the incident. "We are examining flight tracking data obtained from third-party providers, electronic flight bag applications, and onboard avionics," Mr Mitchell stated. The inquiry will also scrutinize formation flying procedures and practices, review pilot records and training documentation, and assess aircraft maintenance histories.
Both pilots held valid licenses with specific authorizations. Mr Seve, who had maintained a private pilot license since 2010, was permitted to perform aerobatics above 500 feet, spins, and formation flying. His most recent medical examination in February 2024 recorded 2,500 flying hours. The other pilot, licensed since 2022, was authorized for aerobatics above 1,500 feet and reported 509 flying hours, with approximately two-thirds of that experience in RV-7 aircraft.
Safety Commitments and Future Reporting
The ATSB has emphasized its commitment to aviation safety throughout the investigation process. "While we will provide comprehensive analysis and findings at the conclusion of our investigation, we will immediately notify relevant parties if we identify any critical safety issues that require prompt action," Mr Mitchell affirmed. The bureau's final report will incorporate detailed evidence analysis and conclusions regarding the circumstances that led to this tragic aviation accident.
