What happened
A Cessna and a Piper were operating in the traffic pattern at a non-towered airport. The pilot of the Piper arrived at the destination airport and entered a right-hand traffic pattern, providing at least three position reports on the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF).
Simultaneously, the pilot of the Cessna completed an aerial application flight and returned to the same airport, entering a left-hand traffic pattern. Because the Cessna was not equipped with radios, the pilot was unable to monitor the CTAF or receive position reports from other aircraft. According to a witness, both aircraft turned onto their final approach legs at the same time, resulting in a collision approximately 150 feet above ground level.
Following the impact, the Piper continued straight ahead and landed safely. The Cessna circled the airport, reentered the traffic pattern, and subsequently landed.
Findings
The investigation determined that the published traffic pattern for the airport is to the left. The collision occurred because the aircraft were on opposing traffic patterns (right-hand versus left-hand) and there was a lack of communication between the two pilots due to equipment limitations.
Safety message
As recommended by the Aeronautical Information Manual, pilots should monitor appropriate control frequencies to maintain an accurate mental picture of surrounding traffic.