Midair Collision Between Two Aircraft During Traffic Pattern Approach

Casualties unknown • Weslaco, TX, US

Two aircraft collided in the air while maneuvering within the airport traffic pattern, resulting in structural damage to both planes before they landed safely.

What happened

On the day of the incident, N53372 entered the airport traffic pattern at midfield on a left downwind leg. The aircraft completed its turns to base and then final, reaching a position approximately 1/4 mile from the approach end of the runway.

Simultaneously, N9433R entered the traffic pattern on a left base leg, located 2 to 3 miles northeast of the airport. The pilot of N9433R turned to base and began a descent. According to statements from both pilots, the collision occurred immediately after N53372 completed its turn to final approach.

The pilot of N9433R reported looking up and to the left, observing N53372 only a split second before the impact. An eyewitness observed that the yellow aircraft (N9433R) flew upward and struck the red and blue aircraft (N53372). Following the collision, both aircraft were able to continue to the airport and landed without further incident. There were no injuries reported.

Damage to N9433R included the separation of the left wingtip, along with minor damage to the left aileron and the leading edge of the left wing. The right side of N53372 sustained significant damage, with the area aft of the cockpit being torn open.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-06-19 Cessna A188B accident near Weslaco, TX?

Two aircraft collided in the air while maneuvering within the airport traffic pattern, resulting in structural damage to both planes before they landed safely.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-06-19 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N53372, operated by Stanley Flying Service, at Weslaco, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE INADEQUATE VISUAL LOOKOUT BY BOTH PILOTS. A FACTOR WAS THE INABILITY OF THE PILOTS TO COMMUNICATE BY RADIO DUE TO THE INCOMPATIBLE EQUIPMENT INSTALLED IN THE TWO AIRPLANES.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03711. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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