Collision Details
A Cessna 172, a high-wing airplane, was in level flight at approximately 1,800 feet mean sea level when it collided with a descending amateur-built Zodiac airplane. Neither pilot was communicating with any air traffic control facility. Reported visibility was 10 miles with high, scattered clouds.
Pilot Outcomes
The Cessna pilot survived the collision with minor injuries and was able to make a successful forced landing. The Zodiac pilot was fatally injured following an uncontrolled descent.
Flight Paths
According to radar and GPS-derived track data, the Cessna was heading approximately north-northeast. The Zodiac was in a shallow descent of about 150 feet per minute and heading southeast.
Damage and Impact Geometry
Witness marks and damage to both airplanes are consistent with the right wing of the Zodiac descending and crossing in front of the Cessna from approximately the Cessna's ten o'clock position. The Zodiac's right wing then collided with the Cessna's propeller, cowling, and engine.
Regulatory Context
Federal Aviation Regulation 91.113 states in part: "...vigilance shall be maintained by each person operating an aircraft so as to see and avoid other aircraft."