Sequence of Events
The Cessna 172, registration N49231, had just departed Runway 32 at Harvey Field, an uncontrolled airport, on an instrument training flight. Radar data indicated that the Cessna was climbing at a rate of 700 to 800 feet per minute, at an airspeed of 65 knots, on a true heading of 310 degrees.
The Beechcraft Bonanza J35, registration N66QB, had departed earlier from Payne Field at Everett. Radar data showed the Bonanza was in level flight at 130 knots, on a true track of 280 degrees.
The two aircraft collided at an altitude of 1,600 feet mean sea level (MSL) in uncontrolled airspace.
Damage Description
Examination of the Cessna 172 revealed linear scratches, gouges, and paint smears on the cabin top and left wing. These marks matched the impact damage, scratches, and gouges found on the bottom surface of the left wing of the Beechcraft Bonanza. The Cessna 172 is a high-wing aircraft, while the Beechcraft Bonanza is a low-wing design.
Environmental Conditions
Official sunset occurred one minute after the accident. At the collision altitude, the sun was 0.01 degrees above the horizon, at a true bearing of 284.6 degrees from the accident site. Witnesses on the ground reported dusk dark light conditions at the time.
Investigative Findings
No probable cause has been stated in the available source material. The investigation continues to examine radar data, witness statements, and aircraft wreckage.