Accident Details
On November 13, 2019, at approximately 1330 eastern daylight time, two Cessna 172 aircraft collided while approaching runway 32 at Ocean County Airport (MJX) in Toms River, New Jersey. The aircraft involved were a Cessna 172E, registration N3958S, and a Cessna 172N, registration N2148E. Both airplanes were substantially damaged. The flight instructor and student pilot aboard the Cessna 172E sustained minor injuries; the pilot of the Cessna 172N was not injured. Both flights were conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot Statements
The pilot of the Cessna 172N stated that he announced his position on the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF) at 3,500 feet about 12 miles west of the airport, intending to perform a simulated engine-out maneuver and spiral down to a left base entry for runway 32. About 5 miles out, he repeated his position and intentions. Upon arriving at the airport at 1,200 feet, he observed no unusual activity. During his spiraling descent and left base entry, at approximately 20 feet above ground, he set flaps to 20° and then felt a thump and sudden roll to the right. He subsequently landed in the grass beside the runway and saw another airplane taxiing.
The flight instructor and student pilot aboard the Cessna 172E reported that they announced their positions on the CTAF while on downwind, base, and final legs for runway 32. On short final, about 100 feet above ground, they noticed aerodynamic issues and then saw a wheel crash into their windshield. They landed, exited the runway, taxied to the ramp, and inspected the damage.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined both airplanes. The Cessna 172N's Comm 1 radio was tuned to 122.80 MHz, with 122.70 MHz in the standby position. According to the FAA Airport Directory, the CTAF for Ocean County Airport was 122.7 MHz. The Cessna 172N sustained substantial damage to its right wing; the Cessna 172E sustained substantial damage to its right wing and vertical stabilizer. The pilots reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Regulatory Context
Title 14 CFR 91.113 requires that, when weather conditions permit, vigilance be maintained to see and avoid other aircraft. Section (g) states that when two or more aircraft are approaching an airport to land, the aircraft at lower altitude has the right-of-way, but shall not take advantage to cut in front of another on final approach or overtake it. The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook emphasizes that all pilots must be alert to potential midair collisions and maintain "see and avoid" vigilance, especially within 5 miles of an airport.