Midair collision: Extra 300 and Cessna 172. Colorado

[danny_galaga]

Unbelievably, there were survivors 😧

I don't think they would have faired too well though

 

 

 

[skippydiesel]

Reference: Uncontrolled Airfield 

 

I am far from a perfect pilot but one thing I do religiously is an overfly, well above circuit height (min +500ft)  BEFOR joining the circuit.

 

No matter where & how far I have arrived from, I will be making at least an inbound, an overhead the field , circuit joining call, along with what I deem necessary in circuit calls (minimum turning base).

 

The above gives me time to listen out for other traffic, visually assess traffic activity, wind direction and time for other traffic to be aware of my presence/intentions.

 

I recognise the time/cost imperative for RPT traffic to conduct straight in approaches. I really don't like the practice, or see the necessity for private pilots to indulge in this, usually unnecessary and increased risk rout.

 

My practise may not have prevented the above incident however it sure would have reduced the chances, even if one pilot was not communicating.

 

On the last point: When approaching an uncontrolled airfield, the prudent pilot will be listening out (on frequency) to get an idea of active runway/traffic numbers/etc. If no "chatter" check frequency setting and /or make a call, asking for active runway advice. If still no communication BE VERY VERY CAUTIOUSE as you close with the airfield.😈

 

[djpacro]

19 hours ago, danny_galaga said:

Unbelievably, there were survivors 😧

I don't think they would have faired too well though

 

Two with minor injuries from the 172. The Extra was consumed by fire.

 

That video might've had some different comments if he had referenced FAA AC 90-66 Non-Towered Airport Flight Operations more so than the Airplane Flying Handbook.

 

It was an aerobatic contest so overflying at "well above circuit height (min +500ft)" would directly conflict with aerobatic aircraft. The aerobatic club should've had someone on the ground with a radio to alert anyone to a traffic conflict. 

 

[djpacro]

This video stated that the Extra's flight was unrelated to the competition however elsewhere someone stated that the pilot was a competitor.

 

 

ADSB track of the Extra's track is consistent with it not being a competition flight.

 

With the competition aerobatic box not being active then the aerobatic club's ground radio operator would also probably not be active.

That video reported Metropolitan State University stated those involved were not students.

 

It may have been an aborted competition flight and above comments may not be correct. We will see a full investigation and report from the NTSB.

 

From the International Aerobatic Club: 

"We are grieved to report that IAC Competitor Kristen Morris passed away in the accident.  IAC Competitor David Shangraw is hospitalized but expected to recover.  Both occupants of the Cessna survived with minor injuries." 

[skippydiesel]

"It was an aerobatic contest so overflying at "well above circuit height (min +500ft)" would directly conflict with aerobatic aircraft. The aerobatic club should've had someone on the ground with a radio to alert anyone to a traffic conflict."

 

Thanks for that,  I hadnt considered the possibility of a flying competition. Any sort of flying comp. changes the dynamics/rules somewhat.

 

Years ago I was  involved with Club Comp. activities (spot landing, toilet role cutting). We always had a Unicom to assist with aircraft seperation.😈