Incident Overview
Two aircraft, N44726 and N5711A, were involved in a mid-air collision while carrying family members traveling together for a holiday. The aircraft took off approximately one minute apart, with N44726 in trail. Due to its higher normal cruise performance, N44726 overtook N5711A.
Sequence of Events
After overtaking, the pilot of N44726 reduced speed and established a position approximately one-half mile to the right of N5711A at the same altitude. The pilot of N44726 reported that he next saw N5711A directly in front as the collision occurred.
Damage and Landing
Evidence indicates that N44726 severed the tail cone from N5711A just forward of the empennage. Despite sustaining substantial damage, N44726 was landed safely.
Probable Cause
The source does not provide a probable cause for the accident.