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Avalon Airshow 2025 Crash: Pilot Seriously Injured
The Avalon International Airshow, a major event in the Southern Hemisphere, experienced a tragic incident on Friday, March 28th, 2025, when a single-seat biplane crashed during an aerobatic maneuver. The accident, which unfolded before a large crowd, left the pilot with serious upper and lower body injuries.
The Crash and Aftermath
The Sky Aces Formation Aerobatic Team was performing when one plane, a Paul Bennet aerobatic aircraft, separated from the formation. Witness accounts describe the pilot attempting a loop, failing to pull out in time, and impacting the ground. The impact sent gasps through the thousands of spectators. Emergency services responded swiftly, and the pilot, the sole occupant of the aircraft, was extricated and received immediate CPR before being airlifted to The Alfred hospital in Melbourne. The airshow was immediately suspended for the day, causing significant logistical challenges for attendees leaving the site.
Pilot's Condition and Investigation
While the pilot is alive, their condition remains serious but stable. Victoria Police initially handled the situation, but the investigation has been handed over to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB). The ATSB has launched a thorough investigation, appealing for witnesses with video footage to come forward. Their investigation will include examining the wreckage, interviewing involved parties, and reviewing flight data, maintenance records, and weather information.
Airshow Response and Future
Following the incident, the organizers expressed their concern for the pilot and their family and confirmed plans to resume the airshow on Saturday morning, subject to confirmation and depending on the outcome of the investigation. Public transport experienced significant delays due to the unexpected early end to the day's events.
Key Takeaways
The Avalon Airshow 2025 crash serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks involved in aerobatic displays. The pilot's survival, despite the severity of the accident, is a testament to the quick response of emergency services and possibly the plane's orientation upon impact. The ATSB investigation will hopefully shed light on the exact cause of the crash, helping to improve safety protocols in future airshows.
