Piper PA-25-235 Pawnee C Crash at Caboolture Airfield, QLD (YCAB): Two Fatalities and Significant Damage to VH-SPA

Date & Time:

28-JUL-2023

Type of aircraft:

Piper PA-25-235 Pawnee C

Operator:

Caboolture Gliding Club Inc

Flight Phase:

Approach

Flight Type:

Banner and glider towing

Total Occupants:

1

Total fatalities:

2 (other)

Circumstances:

At Caboolture Airfield, a tragic mid-air collision occurred between two planes, resulting in the death of a couple in their 60s. The couple, identified as David and Jan Maddern, were aboard a Jabiru J430 which was taking off when it collided with a Piper Pawnee that was landing on a crossing runway. The accident happened around 10:30am on Friday. While the Madderns tragically lost their lives, the male pilot of the Piper Pawnee was unharmed.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has taken up the investigation into the incident. They are in the process of gathering evidence by mapping the accident site, examining the aircraft wreckage, interviewing the surviving pilot and other witnesses, and collecting any available data such as CCTV and flight-tracking information. The ATSB Chief Commissioner, Angus Mitchell, has made an appeal for witnesses to step forward.

Queensland Police’s Acting Superintendent Paul Ready described the incident as a “devastating loss of life,” mentioning that the collision occurred close to the ground. Officers were quick to respond, arriving on the scene shortly after receiving emergency calls. Debris from the crash was scattered on the runway, and multiple emergency units were on site.

The aircraft linked to the Caboolture Gliding Club sustained damage, particularly to one of its wings. Both planes involved in the accident were privately owned, and the Piper PA-25 Pawnee was left on the runway for inspection and photographic evidence. The Caboolture Aero Club expressed their sorrow over the incident and assured their cooperation in the ongoing investigations. The event was also acknowledged by Police Minister Mark Ryan, who assured that a comprehensive investigation would be undertaken.