Accident Overview
A Bellanca 17-30A was approaching to land on runway 19 at an uncontrolled airport while a Piper PA-32-300 was taking off on runway 14. The centerlines of the two runways intersected approximately 1,100 feet from the approach end of runway 14, or about 510 feet from a displaced threshold on that runway. The approach end of runway 19 was situated at the same intersection. The two airplanes converged and collided at that point.
Impact Details
During the collision, the right main landing gear of the Bellanca 17-30A struck the windshield and engine cowling of the Piper PA-32-300.
Communication Aspects
Both airplanes were equipped with two‑way radios. Each pilot reported that they announced their intentions on the UNICOM frequency (122.95 MHz). However, the UNICOM operator, who had just come on duty, did not recall hearing either pilot announce intentions before the accident. The VHF radio of the departing Piper was found tuned to 122.7 MHz, not the UNICOM frequency. Nevertheless, the pilot of a third airplane reported that he heard the Piper pilot make an announcement on the UNICOM frequency stating that he was taking off on runway 14. No corroborating information was obtained to verify that the Bellanca pilot had communicated his intentions on the UNICOM frequency. According to the Piper pilot, the Bellanca pilot did not make a radio call as he was approaching the airport.
Runway in Use and Conditions
At the time of the accident, runway 14 was reported to be in use. The wind was reported from 120 degrees at 8 knots.