The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has published a preliminary report from its ongoing investigation of last month's accident involving a Cessna 210 off Murray Mouth, South Australia.
The preliminary report, which presents evidence gathered so far in the ATSB's investigation but does not include analysis or findings, notes the accident occurred on the afternoon of 6 February 2026, approximately 13 minutes after take-off from Goolwa Airport.
"The purpose of the flight was for a commercial licensed pilot, seated in the front left seat, to accumulate Cessna 210 flying experience, under the supervision of a flight instructor," said ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell.
The instructor, who was head of training and checking for the aircraft operator, was seated in the front right seat.
Seated behind them in the second row left seat was a third occupant, a passenger who held a recreational pilot licence.
"A witness on the west side of Murray Mouth saw the aircraft in a steep descent and filmed the aircraft for a few seconds before it collided with water," ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said.
"The footage shows the aircraft in a left turn spin in a steep nose down and left-wing low attitude, with the landing gear retracted.
"Several witnesses reported the engine sounded like it was running until the collision."
The 3 occupants were fatally injured and the aircraft was destroyed.
The preliminary report details that to date, investigation activities have included analysis of the video footage, as well as a review of air traffic control radar data, which showed the aircraft's altitude had reached 3,375 ft and its groundspeed had reduced to 74 kt, before the descent started.
As the investigation progresses, an onboard GPS unit will be examined and data from electronic flight bag apps will be analysed, while an elevator control cable turnbuckle was recovered from the aircraft wreckage for further examination in the ATSB's Canberra facilities.
A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation once the available evidence has been analysed and findings are developed and established.
"However, should a critical safety issue be identified at any time during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify affected parties so they can take safety action," Mr Mitchell concluded.
You can find here the preliminary report: Collision with water involving Cessna 210N, VH-RDH, 14 km south-east of Goolwa Airport, South Australia, on 6 February 2026
