What happened
A Cessna 172 collided with a Cessna 207 on the airport taxiway while both aircraft were preparing for departure. The incident occurred as the Cessna 172 was taxiing in preparation for takeoff when it struck the Cessna 207, which was just entering the taxiway from its company ramp.
Both pilots reported that they had been cleared to taxi to the same runway for takeoff. Despite this clearance, neither pilot saw the other aircraft in time to avoid the collision. Control tower operators observed the incident and noted that the Cessna 172 was taxiing at a high rate of speed leading up to the impact.
The investigation
Investigative findings focused on the actions of both pilots and the observations of air traffic control personnel. Both pilots stated they did not see each other in time to avoid the collision. Tower operators confirmed that the Cessna 172 was taxiing at a high rate of speed.
Findings
Contributing factors included the failure of both pilots to see and avoid each other while taxiing. The Cessna 172 was observed by tower operators to be taxiing at a high rate of speed, which likely reduced the time available for visual acquisition and avoidance maneuvers.