No fatalities

Midair Collision on Runway During Dual Instructional Flight (N21491)

Angwin, CA, US

On November 3, 1985, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N21491) operated by Pacific Union College Flight was involved in an aviation accident near Angwin, CA. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A Cessna and a Piper collided on a runway during a dual instructional flight. The CFI failed to transmit position on final approach while the Piper pilot did not announce takeoff intentions, and both pilots cited obstructed vision from tall trees.

Incident Overview

During a dual instructional flight near completion, a certified flight instructor (CFI) was providing training to a pre-solo student in a Cessna aircraft. The CFI followed the recommended airfield procedures and announced the aircraft's position over the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF) on the 45-degree entry and downwind legs. However, the CFI failed to transmit the aircraft's position on the final approach leg and also failed to observe a Piper aircraft that was preparing for departure.

Actions of the Piper Pilot

Meanwhile, the pilot of the Piper aircraft, who was preparing to depart, failed to announce his intentions and position while on the taxiway and runway. He further failed to observe the inbound Cessna and consequently did not yield the right-of-way as required.

Collision and Outcome

As the Piper was being rotated for takeoff, the descending Cessna collided with it. The Piper pilot aborted the takeoff, and the Cessna landed without further incident.

Reported Obstructions

Both pilots reported that the presence of tall trees adjacent to the runway's approach had obstructed their vision.

Findings

No official probable cause was stated in the source document. The investigation noted communication and observation failures by both pilots.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Nov 1985 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Angwin, CA?

A Cessna and a Piper collided on a runway during a dual instructional flight. The CFI failed to transmit position on final approach while the Piper pilot did not announce takeoff intentions, and both pilots cited obstructed vision from tall trees.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Nov 1985 Piper PA-28-181 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Nov 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N21491, operated by Pacific Union College Flight, at Angwin, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38258. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.