Pilot Critically Injured in Avalon Airshow Crash Amid Stunt Performance
The officials said that at around 5:15 PM on Friday evening, an aerobatic Pitts Special aircraft lost height as it was undertaking a practice run and crashed to the ground. Upon immediate response by emergency units, Ambulance Victoria reported that the only passenger on board, the pilot, received severe injuries and was transported to the hospital. Victoria Police assured that the crash site was a significant distance from spectators, and no other injuries were reported.
The aircraft is believed to be part of the Paul Bennet Airshows team and was performing on the first public day of the event when the accident occurred.
Investigation Ongoing
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has opened an investigation into the accident. Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said that a transport safety investigation team with experience in aircraft operations and maintenance has been dispatched from Canberra.
“Neighbors will look at flight tracking history, pilot and plane maintenance records, and weather conditions at the time of the crash,” said Mitchell. “Anyone with video footage of the aircraft at any phase of the flight or the aftermath is encouraged to submit it through our witness form on the ATSB website.”
Airshow Response and Future Schedule
Following the crash, Avalon Airshow organizers immediately suspended the remainder of Friday’s program to allow ATSB investigators full access to the crash site.
AMDA Foundation CEO Justin Giddings released a statement confirming the incident and the decision to pause the event temporarily.
“The pilot is in serious but stable condition and receiving medical treatment. The incident occurred well away from the crowd, ensuring no spectators were harmed.
Our prayers are with the pilot, their family, friends, and colleagues,” Giddings said. “We are getting ready to resume the airshow on Saturday morning, subject to confirmation later tonight.”
Airservices Australia confirmed that its Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Service was one of the emergency services on the scene.
Champion Aerobatic Team Shocked by Crash
The identity of the injured pilot has not yet been publicly released.
Paul Bennet Airshows is a highly regarded aerobatic team known for its intricate formation loops, rolls, and daring stunts. This year’s Avalon Airshow included Paul Bennet’s 19-year-old son, Jett, the youngest aerobatic pilot in Australia.
Teenagers Ashton and Kael, who traveled from New South Wales specifically to watch the Paul Bennet team, expressed their shock at the incident.
“I was really worried when I saw the crash,” Ashton said. “I just kept hoping the pilot was okay. It was pretty scary.”
The Avalon Australian International Airshow remains one of the biggest air events in the Southern Hemisphere. Despite the tragic incident, organizers plan to continue with scheduled performances, ensuring safety remains the top priority.
