Accident Overview
A Piper PA-28, registration N791CR, and an Avions Pierre Robin R.2160, registration N216JM, were involved in a midair collision while approaching an uncontrolled airport to enter the traffic pattern and land. Both pilots had heard other traffic on the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF) prior to the collision. The collision occurred as the aircraft were positioning to enter a left traffic pattern at a 45-degree angle.
Pilot Accounts
The PA-28 pilot reported making a radio transmission announcing his position and intentions to land on runway 27 before the collision. Shortly after, he observed a "blue and white flash" to his right and below his right wing, followed by an impact as the two airplanes collided. After the collision, he declared an emergency and continued to a landing on runway 27. He did not realize that the PA-28's right main landing gear had separated until the aircraft touched down.
The R.2160 pilot stated that before the collision, he looked for another airplane he had heard on the CTAF but did not see it. Moments later, his canopy "blew off" as the airplanes collided, and the engine began to vibrate severely. He landed the R.2160 in an open field; however, the airplane erupted in flames after touchdown and was destroyed.
Damage Evidence
Examination of the two aircraft revealed that the PA-28's right main landing gear tire struck the R.2160's upper canopy. Additionally, the R.2160's propeller struck the PA-28's nosegear tire, nosegear strut, and the underside of the cowling.