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Aerobatic Pilot in Critical Condition Following Avalon Airshow Crash
Glenn Collins, a seasoned pilot, is currently in critical condition following a serious accident during an aerobatics demonstration at the Avalon Airshow, which attracted a large crowd on Saturday. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon, prompting immediate response from emergency services.
Paul Bennet Airshow, the team Collins has been a part of for many years, confirmed his identity and the unfortunate event through a statement. “There was an accident yesterday involving one of our long-time Sky Aces pilots during the aerobatic display at the Avalon Australian International Airshow,” the statement read. The organization extended its thoughts to Collins and his family during this challenging time.
In their communication, the team expressed gratitude toward medical personnel and the global community for their well-wishes. They also announced that Paul Bennet Airshows would not participate in the rest of the Avalon Airshow while wishing the public enjoyment of the remaining festivities.
Collins has accumulated over 2,700 hours of flying experience throughout his career. Additionally, he is known for his passion for skydiving, boasting 83 jumps, and has participated in numerous competitions. His accolades include being the New South Wales and Australian Sportsman champion in 1997, Australian Intermediate champion in 1998, and Victorian Advanced champion in 1999.
During the aerobatic display, the 50-something-year-old pilot was executing a solo maneuver when the aircraft lost control and crashed. Collins was quickly airlifted to Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, where he is receiving treatment for serious injuries, though he was reported to be in a critical but stable condition as of Saturday morning.
The Avalon Airshow resumed its operations with an 8 AM opening on Saturday, though the flying displays were delayed. The event had been abruptly concluded on Friday due to the crash, with tens of thousands of attendees asked to leave while the Australian Transport Safety Bureau initiated an investigation into the incident.
Fortunately, the crash occurred away from the main audience, and no other individuals were harmed. A witness, Andrew, described the moment, noting that the aircraft entered a loop and was unable to recover. “We’re OK … everyone was a bit stunned,” he recounted.
The wreckage of the plane, identified as a Wolf Pitts Pro capable of achieving speeds of 414 km/h, halted near the tarmac and resulted in a small grass fire. The specifics surrounding the accident are still under investigation, according to Victoria police, who confirmed that officials from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau would be examining the crash site.
Investigators will review flight details, the pilot’s and aircraft’s maintenance records, weather conditions, and other relevant data. Authorities have urged anyone with video footage of the incident to come forward to aid in the investigation. The crash also led to disruptions in air travel, including a Jetstar flight from Sydney to Avalon being rerouted to Tullamarine Airport in Melbourne due to the unfolding events.
Source
www.theguardian.com