Incident Overview
On an unspecified date, two float-equipped aircraft—a Piper PA-18-150 and a Cessna 185F—were involved in a midair collision over Larson Bay, Alaska. Both aircraft were being used as fish spotters for several fishing boats in the area at the time of the accident. The collision occurred at an altitude of approximately 800 feet mean sea level (MSL).
Aircraft and Pilot Outcomes
The Piper PA-18-150 was destroyed as a result of the collision, and its pilot was fatally injured. The Cessna 185F received no damage, and its pilot was not injured.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot of the Cessna, the two aircraft were flying parallel to each other, with the Piper slightly lower. The Cessna pilot reported that he spotted the Piper below him when the Piper turned to the left. In response, the Cessna pilot turned right and pulled up. During this maneuver, the left float of the Cessna contacted the right wing of the Piper. The Cessna pilot noted that the impact did not seem severe, and the only damage he observed on the Piper was to the outboard end of its right wing. However, following the contact, the Piper continued in a left spiral descent to the water.
Post-Accident Observations
The Cessna pilot expressed the opinion that the fishing boats should warn pilots on a common radio frequency when two aircraft are in close proximity.