Incident Details
On September 14, 2018, at approximately 1004 Pacific daylight time, two Aero Vodochody L39 aircraft collided in midair about 3 miles north of Reno Stead Airport (RTS), Reno, Nevada. The aircraft, registered as N139UK (Race 13) and N139PJ (Race 37), were participating in a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 air race. Both aircraft had departed from RTS at 0950. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plans were filed.
Pilot Reports
The pilot of Race 13 reported that he was observing Race 37 flying a tight line on the course. He announced on the race frequency that he was passing Race 37 on the right. The pilot stated that he had sight of Race 37 at all times and noted that during the 5th lap, near pylon 4, he believed Race 37 may have rolled right prior to the collision. Following the collision, Race 13's pilot declared an emergency and landed without incident.
The pilot of Race 37 recalled hearing the pilot of Race 13 state that he was on his right during the 4th lap near pylon 7. During the 5th lap, as he passed pylon 4, he felt an impact like a car crash and did not see Race 13. He subsequently heard a mayday call from Race 13 and declared his own mayday, noting sluggish control responsiveness. He was able to land safely.
Video Evidence
A witness video showed Race 37 in a level attitude while nearing pylon 4, with Race 13 in a slight left bank behind it. Shortly after, Race 37 initiated a left bank as Race 13 rapidly approached from behind. Just before the collision, Race 13 rolled out of the turn to an almost level attitude.
Aircraft Damage
Examination of Race 37 revealed that the outboard 24 inches of the right wing and right aileron were separated from the aircraft. Additional damage was found to the bottom of the vertical stabilizer and the leading edge of the left horizontal stabilizer. Race 13 sustained damage to two inspection panels and fairings on the forward left side of the fuselage and the bottom of the left wing. Both pilots were not injured.