Incident Overview
A Piper PA-31T, registered as N9162Y, and a Beech 200C, registered as N390AC, were involved in a midair collision while both were cruising at an altitude of 17,500 feet. The visibility at the time was reported as unlimited. The collision resulted in substantial damage to both aircraft, but the aircrews of both planes were able to continue flying and land safely.
Flight Paths and Navigation
The Piper was tracking inbound on the 210-degree radial of the Richmond VOR. The Beech was tracking inbound on the 340-degree radial of the Wilmington VOR. The two aircraft converged on one another with a closure speed of approximately 420 knots and in the same general directions that the pilots' views were obstructed.
Pilot Accounts
The pilot of the Piper reported seeing a tan flash just before the collision. The pilot of the Beech did not see the Piper at any point before the impact.
Visibility and Cockpit Obstructions
The pilot of the Piper had a somewhat restricted view due to the left windshield side post. Similarly, the pilot of the Beech had a somewhat restricted view caused by the windshield center post and the windshield wiper arm.
Outcome
Both aircraft were substantially damaged in the collision, but no injuries were reported, and both pilots managed to land their aircraft safely. The exact circumstances leading to the collision are documented in the official investigation report.