What happened
During an approach into Houma-Terrebonne Airport, a Cessna 401 collided with another aircraft while operating in low-visibility conditions characterized by haze and fog. The second aircraft, a Cessna 180 bearing registration N66186, was also on final approach to the same destination. This second aircraft was operated by Wurzlow Flying Service and was carrying two people: the pilot and one passenger.
Upon impact, the Cessna 401 lost stability and crashed, resulting in a post-crash fire that caused the death of its pilot. The crew of the N66186 managed to perform an emergency landing following the encounter. Both individuals aboard the Cessna 180 sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several environmental and operational factors. At the time of the collision, visibility was limited to three miles or less due to fog and haze. The aircraft were not operating under radar contact, and the airspace was not a controlled area. Key technical details noted during the investigation include:
- A convergence angle of 30 degrees
- A horizontal collision angle of 60 degrees
- Both pilots failed to see and avoid the other aircraft
- Anti-collision lights were active at the time of impact