The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) significantly expanded its aviation safety output in 2025, publishing a record number of reports, briefs and safety products aimed at influencing industry-wide improvements.
Across the year, the ATSB released 304 safety products, with aviation investigations and safety messaging forming a major component of that output.
Among the 91 final investigation reports published in 2025 were several high-profile aviation cases, including the systemic investigation into the midair collision between two sightseeing helicopters over the Gold Coast. That report made 27 findings and identified 12 safety issues.
Also finalised was a systemic investigation into two international widebody aircraft that departed over a closed section of runway at Melbourne Airport. The investigation prompted safety improvements implemented or planned by Australia’s aviation regulator, Airservices Australia, the International Civil Aviation Organization and the airlines involved.
Beyond major investigations, the ATSB increased its focus on preliminary and interim reporting. The bureau now aims to publish a preliminary report within eight weeks of significant aviation accidents, while investigations extending beyond 12 months are supported by comprehensive interim updates. The approach is designed to ensure safety information is shared with industry as early as possible.
Occurrence briefs also played a growing role in aviation safety messaging. In 2025, the ATSB published 74 briefs, up from 27 in 2024 and just nine in 2023. These shorter reports examine incidents that may not warrant a full investigation but still contain important safety lessons. Shared widely online, the briefs generated strong engagement across the aviation community.
Digital content formed another key pillar of the bureau’s aviation outreach. Major investigations were supported by educational videos using graphics, animation and investigator interviews to explain events and highlight safety lessons. Some of the bureau’s aviation videos attracted tens of thousands — and in some cases hundreds of thousands — of views across social media platforms.
Confidential reporting through the ATSB’s REPCON system also continued to influence aviation safety. The voluntary scheme allows industry participants to raise safety concerns confidentially. After assessment and consultation with relevant parties, summary reports are published to promote awareness and, where appropriate, encourage safety action.
In addition to investigation outputs, the ATSB processed 7,636 aviation safety occurrence reports in 2025, adding them to its national searchable database—one of the key tools used by operators, researchers and regulators to identify trends and emerging risks.