Summary
The ATSB is investigating a collision with terrain involving a Van's RV-8, registered VH-YGY, 40 km west of Gladstone Airport, Queensland, on 23 November 2025.
During initial climb, the aircraft reportedly encountered a mechanical issue and the pilot attempted to land. The aircraft subsequently collided with a tree and was destroyed. The pilot sustained serious injuries.
The ATSB deployed a team of 4 transport safety investigators to the accident site with experience in aircraft operations, maintenance, and engineering. As part of the on-site phase of the investigation, ATSB investigators examined the aircraft wreckage and other information from the accident site, interviewed witnesses and involved parties, and examined maintenance records and recorded data.
The ATSB has completed the evidence collection and analysis phases of the investigation and is drafting the final report.
The final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2025-068 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 23/11/2025 |
| Location | 40 km west of Gladstone Airport |
| State | Queensland |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q2 2026 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Final report: Drafting |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Collision with terrain, Engine failure or malfunction |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | Serious |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Amateur Built Aircraft |
|---|---|
| Model | Van's RV-8 |
| Registration | VH-YGY |
| Serial number | 80605 |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Part 91 General operating and flight rules |
| Damage | Destroyed |