Aviation safety investigations & reports
Collision with terrain involving ASH-25M glider (modified with a gas turbine engine, experimental), VH-GOA, 13 km WNW Bathurst Airport, NSW, on 21 January 2018
AO-2018-009

Summary
The ATSB is investigating the collision with terrain of an ASH-25M motor glider (modified with a gas turbine engine, experimental), VH-GOA, which occurred at Pipers Field, 13km WNW of Bathurst Airport, NSW on 21 January 2018. The glider was destroyed by post-impact fire and the pilot was fatally injured.
A team of two Transport Safety Investigators has been deployed to the accident site. As part of the investigation, the investigators will examine the accident site, gather any recorded data and will interview witnesses.
The ATSB encourages anyone who witnessed the accident to call 1800 020 616.
The ATSB will release a report into the accident once the investigation has concluded. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties.
General details
Date: | 21 January 2018 | Investigation status: | Active | ||
Time: | 13:10 ESuT | Investigation level: | Complex - click for an explanation of investigation levels | ||
Location (show map): | Pipers Field, 13 km WNW Bathurst Airport | Investigation phase: | Final report: Drafting | ||
State: | New South Wales | Occurrence type: | Collision with terrain | ||
Occurrence class: | Operational | ||||
Report status: | Pending | Occurrence category: | Accident | ||
Anticipated completion: | 2nd Quarter 2019 | Highest injury level: | Fatal |
Aircraft details
Aircraft manufacturer | Alexander Schleicher Segelflugzeugbau | |
---|---|---|
Aircraft model | ASH-25M | |
Aircraft registration | VH-GOA | |
Serial number | 25045 | |
Type of operation | Gliding | |
Sector | Piston | |
Damage to aircraft | Destroyed | |
Departure point | Bathurst, NSW | |
Destination | Bathurst, NSW |