Incident
A Beech C90 (N3804F) and a Cessna 172 (N52244) collided at an altitude of approximately 200 to 300 feet above ground level while both aircraft were taking off from intersecting runways at an uncontrolled airport. The Beech was departing Runway 06 under an IFR flight plan, while the Cessna was conducting an instructional flight in the traffic pattern, performing a touch-and-go landing.
Flight Crews
The Beech was occupied by two airline transport pilots. The Cessna carried a certified flight instructor and a low-time student pilot. Both pilots in the Beech were killed in the collision. The status of the Cessna occupants was not specified in the report.
Communications
According to witness information, the Cessna crew made at least one radio call on the common traffic advisory frequency (UNICOM) while in the pattern before landing and another call during takeoff. The Beech crew reportedly made a radio call as they began the takeoff roll. The Beech pilots had received a flight plan clearance on a separate frequency shortly before departing. Neither flight crew appeared to take evasive action until just before impact.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be the failure of the pilots of both aircraft to maintain an adequate visual lookout to see and avoid the other aircraft.