Incident Overview
A Cessna 210, registration N212FS, was cruising northeast on an IFR clearance at 7,000 feet, squawking a discrete transponder code. Simultaneously, a Cessna 172, registration N19649, was converging head-on while squawking 1200, the standard VFR code. The ground speed of the 210 was 174 knots; the ground speed of the 172 was 138 knots.
Air Traffic Control Communication
The air traffic controller advised the pilot of the 210 that there was "traffic 12 o'clock, 5 miles, opposite direction, altitude unknown." The 210 pilot acknowledged the advisory, but neither he nor his passenger saw the conflicting traffic until moments before impact, which occurred near a VOR station.
Evasive Action and Impact
The 210 pilot initiated evasive action, but he did not believe there was sufficient time for the aircraft to respond to control inputs. During the impact, the left wings of both aircraft were damaged. The 210 continued flying and was successfully landed, while the 172 went out of control and crashed.
Visibility Conditions
The 210 pilot estimated visibility was at least 50 miles. Visibility reported at the nearest weather station was 40 miles.
Lighting and Radio Contact
The 210 pilot did not use his landing light, and there was no indication that the 172 pilot had used his landing light. Use of a landing light was not required. There was no radio contact with the 172.
Aftermath
The 210 landed successfully despite the damage. The 172 crashed after losing control. The source does not provide further details on the occupants or injuries.