Incident Overview
A United States Air Force T-38 aircraft and a Cessna 206 aircraft collided in mid-air during visual flight operations within a Military Operations Area (MOA). Radar data indicated that the overtaking T-38 struck the Cessna 206 from the right side.
Aircraft Missions
The Cessna 206 was conducting a local government contract terrain photography mission and had nearly completed a left 360-degree turn at the time of the collision. The T-38 was transiting the MOA in connection with a military mission.
Flight Operations
Both aircraft were operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and were not in contact with the MOA controllers. Neither pilot was required to establish or maintain positive radio or radar contact with the air traffic control facility responsible for the area. However, the Airman's Information Manual states: "Pilots operating under VFR should exercise extreme caution while flying within a MOA... Prior to entering an active MOA, pilots should contact the controlling agency for traffic advisories."
Available Assistance
Radar and radio assistance was available to either pilot. The T-38 was equipped with a transponder featuring Mode C altitude reporting.
Collision Details
The collision occurred at an altitude of approximately 8,700 feet above mean sea level.