Stephen Gale dies in fatal Port Phillip Bay mid-air crash
Stephen Gale dies in fatal Port Phillip Bay mid-air crash
Fatal Port Phillip Bay mid-air crash death of Stephen Gale – Obituary
An investigation has revealed that the maneuver leading to the deadly collision over Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay had not been pre-discussed. Veteran pilot Stephen Gale and experienced cameraman James Rose lost their lives when their aircraft collided with a military-style jet near Mount Martha, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Melbourne, on November 19.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) released its final report today after an eight-month investigation into the incident.
The report indicated that the fatal maneuver involved the lead aircraft, Viper 1, rolling inverted while the second jet, Viper 2, flew directly beneath it. This maneuver was executed without prior briefing or the knowledge of Viper 1’s crew.
Following the initial attempt, the pilots conversed via radio about repeating the maneuver. According to Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell, this in-flight discussion did not provide adequate time for the pilots to fully assess the associated risks before attempting the maneuver again.
During the second attempt, Viper 2’s right wing struck the right wing of the inverted Viper 1, causing both pilots to lose control immediately. Viper 2 sustained severe damage, including the failure of its front wing spar and deformation of the outboard wing section, leading to its crash into the water.
Mitchell emphasized the importance of pre-briefing in-flight maneuvers to ensure the safety of formation flying by reducing pilot workload and preventing distractions.
The bodies of both Rose and Gale were discovered amidst the wreckage off Mornington. The second aircraft, which carried two additional individuals, managed to land safely at Essendon Airport. The tragic crash occurred during the filming of a promotional video for Jetworks Aviation.
Stephen Gale dies in fatal Port Phillip Bay mid-air crash Fatal Port Phillip Bay mid-air crash death of Stephen Gale – Obituary An investigation has revealed that the maneuver leading to the deadly collision over Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay had not been pre-discussed. Veteran pilot Stephen Gale and experienced cameraman James Rose lost their lives…
Stephen Gale dies in fatal Port Phillip Bay mid-air crash Fatal Port Phillip Bay mid-air crash death of Stephen Gale – Obituary An investigation has revealed that the maneuver leading to the deadly collision over Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay had not been pre-discussed. Veteran pilot Stephen Gale and experienced cameraman James Rose lost their lives…