Engine Failure Forces Shellharbour Flight School Plane to Land on Sydney Golf Course
A partial engine failure has been identified as the cause of a dramatic emergency landing that saw a Shellharbour-based light aircraft ditch onto a Sydney golf course. The incident, which occurred on August 17, 2025, involved a flight instructor and a student pilot from Airspeed Aviation Flight School, based at Shellharbour Airport.
Emergency Landing on Mona Vale Greens
The duo had taken off from Shellharbour Airport for a routine training flight when they encountered severe engine trouble. As the engine failed, the instructor was forced to make an emergency landing on the greens at Mona Vale Golf Course in Sydney. The plane landed heavily, scattering debris across the grass as dozens of golfers and spectators in the clubhouse watched in shock.
The student pilot sustained minor injuries in the crash, while the instructor emerged unharmed. Both men were transported to Royal North Shore Hospital for assessment following the harrowing incident.
ATSB Investigation Findings
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has completed its investigation into the crash, releasing its final report on January 22, 2026. The report concluded that a broken exhaust valve in the aircraft's engine led to a rapid loss of power, necessitating the forced landing.
According to the ATSB, the crew heard unusual noises and observed a sharp drop in engine RPM while flying approximately 1600 feet above the coast north of Sydney. This was accompanied by heavy engine vibration and the distinct smell of oil, signaling serious mechanical failure.
Pilot's Quick Thinking Praised
ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell commended the instructor's proactive decision-making during the emergency. "Fortunately, the instructor was proactive in maintaining an awareness of potential landing sites throughout the flight," Mr Mitchell stated.
The report details how the instructor initially aimed for Long Reef Golf Course, which offered fewer trees, but kept Mona Vale Golf Course in mind as a closer alternative. When the engine's RPM dropped further about one nautical mile from Mona Vale, the instructor executed a 180-degree turn to head north toward the golf course.
"The instructor was able to determine that the safest option would be to conduct a landing on the Mona Vale golf course," Mr Mitchell explained. During the landing approach, the pilot made a right turn to avoid the golf club building, but the right wing dropped, resulting in a heavy landing that caused substantial damage to the aircraft.
Technical Failure and Safety Measures
The ATSB investigation found that an exhaust valve broke away from one of the engine's cylinders, causing extensive damage to internal components including the cylinder, piston, and spark plugs. While the exact reason for the valve failure could not be determined, the engine manufacturer, Textron Lycoming, has since been provided with maintenance information to reduce the risk of valve sticking in future.
Mr Mitchell emphasized that the pilot's prompt identification of a suitable forced landing site likely prevented a more serious outcome. "This investigation highlights the importance of effective decision-making skills in emergency situations," he noted.
Recent Aviation Tragedies in the Illawarra Region
This incident adds to a series of aviation tragedies affecting the Illawarra community in recent months. On October 11, 2025, three locals—Andrew Connors, his wife Julieanne Connors, and their friend Colin McLaughlin—were killed when a light aircraft crashed and burst into flames at Shellharbour Airport. An investigation into that crash is ongoing.
Earlier, on October 26, 2024, Dapto man Jake Anastas was among three people killed in a mid-air collision between two aircraft at The Oaks in south-west Sydney. An intermediate ATSB report revealed the planes were "within line of sight" for just eight seconds before colliding, with a final report still pending.
Another tragedy occurred on November 30, 2025, when well-known stunt pilot Eddie Seve died in a mid-air collision near Appin. Seve had performed frequently in the Illawarra region prior to his death.
Airspeed Aviation Flight School has been contacted for comment regarding the Mona Vale Golf Course incident.
