What happened
During a local training mission departing from Jacksonville-Towers Field NAS, a mid-air collision occurred between two aircraft. As the flight was approaching the airbase from an easterly direction, it struck a USN Vought RF-86G Crusader, registration 146864.
The impact caused both the training aircraft and the fighter jet to descend rapidly toward the earth. The wreckage of both planes crashed in the vicinity of Jacksonville Beach, located approximately 17 miles east of the departure airfield. The accident resulted in six fatalities, accounting for all occupants on both aircraft.
Findings
- The collision took place during the approach phase of flight.
- The incident involved a single pilot aboard the Vought RF-86G Crusader and the crew of the training aircraft.
- The primary factor in the accident was the mid-air impact between the two aircraft while maneuvering near the airfield.