Aircraft separation issues involving GippsAero GA8, VH-ASI, and Fairchild SA227, VH-SEZ, at Flinders Island Airport, Tasmania, on 17 December 2025

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a near collision involving GippsAero GA8, VH-ASI, and Fairchild SA227, VH-SEZ, at Flinders Island Airport, Tasmania, on 17 December 2025.

Passing 150 ft on take-off from runway 14, the crew of the Fairchild SA227 observed the GippsAero GA-8 taking off on the crossing runway 23 in close proximity.

The final report has been drafted and is undergoing internal review to ensure the report adequately and accurately reflects the evidence collected, analysis, and agreed findings.

To date, the ATSB investigation has included:

• interviewing flight crew from both aircraft
• interviewing witnesses on the ground
• examining available CCTV footage and aerodrome VHF communications
• analysis of recorded flight data
• examination operators' and airport manuals
• reviewing pilot and aircraft maintenance records.

In the course of the investigation, the ATSB has identified potential limitations in risk controls relevant to the occurrence. Examination of these factors represent a significant increase in the scope of this investigation, and it has been upgraded from Short to Defined as a result (the ATSB's different levels of investigation are detailed here).

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.