Incident Overview
A midair collision occurred between a Piper PA-28, registration N473FT, and an American AA-1A, registration N9486L, while both aircraft were on final approach to land on runway 13 at an uncontrolled airport. Following the collision, both aircraft crashed to the ground.
Pilot Accounts
The pilot of the AA-1A survived the accident but, due to injuries, could not recall details of the occurrence. A certified flight instructor (CFI) who was in traffic ahead of both aircraft provided key observations. The CFI reported that the AA-1A was initially in left traffic behind the PA-28. He heard the PA-28 pilot report on a 1-3/4 mile final approach, followed by the AA-1A pilot reporting on base leg. Subsequently, the CFI heard the AA-1A pilot report turning on a short final approach and became aware of a potential traffic conflict.
Observations and Collision
The CFI then saw the AA-1A in a left turn on the right side of the final approach path, which he interpreted as the pilot having overshot the turn to final. He also saw the PA-28 on final approach. Shortly thereafter, the two aircraft converged and collided. During impact, the propeller and nosewheel of the AA-1A struck the empennage of the PA-28.
Aircraft Damage
No further details about the damage to either aircraft were provided in the source.