Incident Overview
A Cessna 210, registration N81SC, and a Beech 23, registration N4021T, were involved in a midair collision near an airport. The incident occurred as the Cessna was completing its turn to the downwind leg of the traffic pattern at an altitude of 900 feet.
Sequence of Events
The Cessna 210 was planning to depart the traffic pattern on the downwind leg. The pilot reportedly announced their takeoff, crosswind, and downwind turns. Meanwhile, the Beech 23 was inbound from the north, and its pilot announced an intention to enter a 'long' 2-mile downwind leg. This transmission was reportedly heard by an airport employee.
As the Cessna finished its turn to downwind at 900 feet, the collision occurred. Both pilots were able to land their aircraft at the airport following the incident.
Location
A witness observed the collision and reported it occurred approximately 1/4 mile north and 1/3 mile west of the departure end of runway 36. A component from the Cessna was later found in a field located about 1 nautical mile and 322 degrees from the departure end of the same runway.
Relevant Guidance
The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) recommends that aircraft depart the traffic pattern either on the upwind leg or by turning 45 degrees to the left while in the upwind leg. For downwind entry, the recommended procedure is to join at a 45-degree angle abeam the midpoint of the downwind leg.
Investigation
The source does not provide a probable cause for the accident.