I wonder if the other plane had been destroyed instead would this still be an issue or would the OP have paid for the other guys plane?

I have witnessed at least 20 midairs and been involved in at least four not including racing and combat which would put the number at closer to 15. It is really hard to hit another plane when you are trying and doing it by accident is rare enough that I don't think you can asses blame. I wouldn't belong to a club where I had to fly around in circles all the time and I doubt many here would either.

Chalk it up to stuff happens and it's part of the game. Hearing one side of any story will guaranty you don't get the whole story.