Accident Overview
On the day of the accident, a Cessna 340, registration N5415M, was scheduled for an air taxi check ride with an inspector at Jackson, Wyoming. The aircrew had planned to depart from Rock Springs, Wyoming, practice several instrument approaches there, and then proceed to Jackson.
After takeoff, the Cessna crew conducted an NDB approach, executed a missed approach, and then began an ILS approach. At the same time, a Beech Bonanza, registration N1825F, was on a flight from Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Rock Springs. During its arrival, the Bonanza pilot was monitoring the position of a King Air that was ahead and also on an approach to the same airport.
All three aircraft were using the same radio frequency and providing reports of their respective positions. At approximately 1103 mountain daylight time, witnesses heard the collision between N5415M and N1825F. They then observed the aircraft and pieces of wreckage falling.
Investigation Findings
An investigation determined that the Cessna was inbound toward the outer marker on a 270° course, while the Bonanza was in level flight with a heading of approximately 219°. Both aircraft were operating under visual flight rules (VFR).
The investigation reported that all six occupants in both aircraft were killed.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was listed as a midair collision during the approach phase from the initial approach fix to the final approach fix/outer marker (IFR). Findings included that the pilot in command did not use radar traffic information service, and that both the copilot/second pilot and the pilot of the other aircraft had inadequate visual lookout.