Coroner finds Recreational Aviation Australia deliberately hid details on crash pilot’s licence

A Tragic Incident and Its Aftermath

The sudden and tragic death of Mathew Farrell, a 42-year-old paraglider, has sparked a detailed coronial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his fatal crash. Farrell, an experienced paraglider, lost his life in an incident that has raised serious questions about the certification processes and oversight within Recreational Aviation Australia (RAAus), the body responsible for regulating recreational aviation in the country. The coroner’s findings have revealed a concerning pattern of misinformation, procedural breaches, and deliberate attempts to obscure critical information, shedding light on systemic issues within RAAus. This case not only highlights the importance of robust safety measures in aviation but also underscores the need for transparency and accountability in regulatory bodies.

Certification Controversy: A Question of Recognised Flying Time

At the heart of the investigation is the issue of how Farrell’s paragliding experience was recognised by RAAus. Initially, the aviation body had suggested that Farrell’s prior paragliding experience could be counted as recognised flying time, which would have streamlined his certification process. However, the coroner’s inquiry revealed that this stance was not consistent with RAAus’s internal policies at the time. Documents produced during the investigation showed that Jillian Bailey, the then-head of flight operations at RAAus, had raised concerns with the chief executive about potential irregularities in Farrell’s certification. Bailey indicated that she may have inadvertently certified Farrell in a manner that contravened the organisation’s operations manual, casting doubt on the validity of his certification.

The coroner’s findings were clear: RAAus’s management had reviewed the training manual and determined that Farrell’s paragliding history should not have been considered as recognised aeronautical experience. This revelation has significant implications, as it suggests that Farrell may not have met the necessary requirements to obtain his pilot’s licence. The fact that these critical documents were only produced after the coroner compelled RAAus to do so further complicates the matter, raising questions about the organisation’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Deliberate Obstruction: RAAus’s Conduct Under Scrutiny

The coroner’s investigation has brought to light disturbing evidence of a deliberate effort by RAAus to conceal key information from the court. Coroner Lawrie expressed strong concerns about the organisation’s conduct, stating that RAAus engaged in a “deliberate strategy to hide these key issues from the court.” This includes allegations that Jillian Bailey provided false testimony in “material respects,” which served to further obscure critical details. The coroner’s findings suggest that RAAus prioritised protecting its reputation over providing accurate and timely information, undermining the integrity of the investigation.

Lawrie’s referral of RAAus to prosecutors for its conduct during the coronial investigation marks a significant step in holding the organisation accountable. The coroner also noted that RAAus has since declared it would no longer investigate crashes involving recreational aircraft, a decision that has prompted calls for greater oversight. Among the five recommendations made by the coroner was a suggestion that the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) take over such investigations, ensuring a more transparent and impartial process in the future.

Family’s Concerns and Advocacy for Change

Farrell’s partner, Karen Waller, and her legal team have long harboured concerns about the circumstances under which he obtained his pilot’s licence. The coroner’s findings have validated these concerns, revealing a flawed certification process and a lack of transparency on the part of RAAus. In a statement released by Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, Waller expressed her distress over the obstacles faced during the inquest, noting that it was “alarming to hear the coroner conclude that RAAus had engaged in a deliberate strategy to hide key documents from the court.” The family’s legal team highlighted the troubling implications of RAAus’s actions, which not only compromised the integrity of the investigation but also raised questions about the safety of recreational aviation in Australia.

Lessons Learned and the Path Forward

The coroner’s findings in this case serve as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous oversight and accountability in aviation regulation. While RAAus’s decision to step back from investigating recreational aircraft crashes is a step in the right direction, it is only the beginning. The coroner’s recommendation that the ATSB take over such investigations is a critical measure that could help restore public confidence in the safety and integrity of recreational aviation.

For Karen Waller and her legal team, the outcome of this investigation is not just about securing justice for Mathew Farrell but also about advocating for systemic change. They hope that the findings will lead to stronger regulatory frameworks and greater transparency within RAAus and similar organisations. The case of Mathew Farrell is a poignant reminder of the human cost of procedural failures and the need for organisations to prioritise safety and accountability above all else.

In conclusion, the coronial investigation into Mathew Farrell’s death has uncovered a web of issues that go far beyond a single tragic incident. It has shone a light on the systemic shortcomings within RAAus and the need for greater oversight in recreational aviation. As the aviation community moves forward, it must do so with a renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and safety to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.