Pair Was Part of a Four-Person Formation Flight Over Napper Field

A formation flight of four Van’s RV-7 aircraft over Sydney’s Wedderburn Airport (Napper Field) on November 30 met an early end when two planes collided mid-air, tragically taking one pilot’s life. The other aircraft involved was, fortunately, able to return for a safe landing.

Emergency services were called just before noon after witnesses reported a crash in nearby bushland. The aircraft, registered VH-EWS, barely missed the airport’s hangars before impacting wooded terrain, fatally injuring 48-year-old seasoned aerobatic pilot and kit builder Eddie Seve.

The surviving RV-7, registered VH-NMG, was only slightly damaged in the mid-air. It was able to return to the field and land safely, leaving pilot Ollie Geraghty uninjured.

The planes are said to have been part of a private formation flight with two other aircraft belonging to the Freedom Formation Display Team. Witness John Taru, a fellow member of the NSW Sport Aircraft Club, said the group regularly practiced. Conditions were reportedly choppy, and Taru said he saw one aircraft break formation moments before he heard “a bang,” initially thinking something had struck his hangar.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) added that the group had been returning to land when the mid-air collision occurred. Investigators are now on site to begin their probe.

"Over coming days, investigators will undertake site mapping, examine aircraft wreckage and damage, and recover any relevant components for further examination at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra," an ATSB statement read.

Australia’s Temora Flyers were one of the first to publicly acknowledge the accident, noting that “many in our community will be familiar with the Freedom Formation team, whose dedication, professionalism and passion for aviation have inspired so many—especially our youth.”

“Today’s loss is deeply felt across the aviation community and by all who have witnessed their commitment firsthand… Temora Flyers Inc extends our heartfelt condolences to the pilot’s family, friends, and all who are grieving during this difficult time,” the post continued.

FMI: www.atsb.gov.au