The national body governing ultralight aviation, Recreational Aviation Australia (RAAus), has been referred to the Victorian Director of Public Prosecutions for allegedly withholding crucial information during a coronial investigation into the fatal crash of a light sports aircraft. Coroner Paul Lawrie made this referral while delivering his findings regarding the death of 42-year-old Matthew Farrell, who died when his aircraft crashed near Mount Beauty, Victoria, on 18 September 2022.
Farrell, who received his recreational pilot licence from RAAus just months before the crash, had limited flight experience, with only 3.6 hours of solo time, despite having prior paragliding experience. The coroner expressed disbelief that a student pilot could achieve certification in a single day and highlighted that Farrell’s endorsements for cross-country and passenger travel were improperly granted by RAAus.
Moreover, the coroner revealed that RAAus had engaged in a strategy to conceal significant issues from the court, noting false evidence was provided by a senior member of the organisation. In light of these findings, Lawrie recommended that the Australian Transport Safety Bureau take over investigations into recreational aircraft crashes. Farrell’s partner expressed relief over the coroner’s conclusions and voiced concerns about the challenges faced during the inquest, indicating a willingness to explore legal options following the findings. RAAus has yet to comment on the matter.