What happened
The incident occurred when a Piper PA-32-260 was conducting a departure from an uncontrolled airport. The pilot of the PA-32-260 initiated a left downwind turn as part of the standard traffic pattern. At the same time, a second aircraft, identified as a Piper PA-28-181, was transiting the vicinity approximately one mile south of the airport at an altitude of 1500 feet above ground level.
The pilot of the PA-28-181 reported seeing the PA-32-260 just prior to impact and immediately executed a descending right turn in an attempt to avoid the collision. Despite this evasive action, the right main landing gear wheel of the PA-32-260 struck the aft portion of the left wing tip of the PA-28-181.
The pilot of the PA-32-260 stated that he did not see the other aircraft prior to the contact. However, two passengers aboard the PA-32-260—one in the right front seat and one in the right rear seat—both observed the PA-28-181 before the collision occurred.
The investigation
Post-impact inspection revealed specific damage to both airframes. On the Piper PA-28-181, the right outboard aileron hinge was destroyed, causing the aileron to bend backward and upward. The Piper PA-32-260 sustained minor damage, consisting of a small cut on the right main landing gear tire and a scrape on the outside portion of the wheel rim.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the failure of the pilot of the Piper PA-32-260 to see and avoid the transiting aircraft. Although passengers on board had visual contact with the other plane, the pilot did not. Both aircraft subsequently landed safely without further incident.