SkyAces Formation Pilot Left Seriously Injured and Aircraft Destroyed

A Wolf Pitts S-1-11S aerobatic biplane was destroyed during day four of the Avalon Australian International Airshow. The pilot reportedly lost control of the aircraft during his act and was seriously injured, but alive.

The Pitts, registered VH-PVX, is operated by Paul Bennet Airshows and was performing with the SkyAces Formation Aerobatic Team. The group is well known for its precision aerobatic performances, featuring formation loops, rolls, and head-to-head stunts. This year’s event included Paul Bennet’s 19-year-old son, Jett, noted as one of the youngest aerobatic pilots in Australia.

According to eyewitness accounts, one of the four performing aircraft appeared to lose control while pulling out of a loop. It impacted the ground at around 5:15 pm, critically injuring the pilot and sole occupant. The crash occurred a safe distance from spectators, and no other injuries were reported.

The airshow’s emergency response team, including pyrotechnicians and airport fire services, was on the scene almost immediately. The pilot was transported by air to Alfred Hospital in Melbourne for treatment. The rest of the Paul Bennet crew remained in the air until it was deemed safe to land.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation, deploying a team from its Canberra office specializing in aircraft operations and maintenance.

"The ATSB asks anyone with video footage of the aircraft at any phase of the flight, or in the immediate aftermath of the accident, to make contact via the witness form on our website at their earliest opportunity,” the agency stated.

The Avalon Airshow was scheduled for March 25 to 30 at Avalon Airport (AVV) in Australia. While the accident caused organizers to suspend the rest of the March 28 show, they were able to reopen at 8:00 am the next morning with a slight delay to the flight schedule.

“We confirm there has been an incident involving one of our long time Sky Aces pilots during (Friday’s) aerobatic display at the Avalon Australian International Airshow,” read a statement from Paul Bennet Airshows. “Our thoughts are with his family and we are grateful for the emergency services who responded quickly."

FMI: https://airshow.com.au