Piper PA-44-180 N118TP and Cessna 172R N369ES accident near Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Probable cause

The failure of both pilots to see and avoid the other aircraft.

NTSB analysis

A Cessna and Piper were both on instructional flights, operating in a concentrated flight training area that is depicted on a sectional chart. There was no air-to-ground communication in the area, but there was an advisory frequency that was used by the flight schools in the area. The Cessna's pilot reported that he was "...a Cessna 172 holding at FRDDY at 2000 feet." No other radio transmissions were heard from the Cessna, and there were no reports of any radio transmissions from the Piper. Radar information indicated that the Cessna was on a 210-degree course and was tracking at a speed of 86 knots. The Piper was on a course of 160 degrees and was tracking at a speed of 126 knots. Both airplanes converged on the same position, and the collision occurred at about 2,000 feet above ground level. The reported weather about the time of the accident included clear skies and visibility of 10 miles.

A Cessna and Piper were both on instructional flights, operating in a concentrated flight training area that is depicted on a sectional chart. There was no air-to-ground communication in the area, but there was an advisory frequency that was used by the flight schools in the area. The Cessna's pilot reported that he was "...a Cessna 172 holding at FRDDY at 2000 feet." No other radio transmissions were heard from the Cessna. Radar information indicated that the Cessna was on a 210-degree course and was tracking at a speed of 86 knots. The Piper was on a course of 160 degrees and was tracking at a speed of 126 knots. Both airplanes converged on the same position, and the collision occurred at about 2,000 feet above ground level. The reported weather about the time of the accident included clear skies and visibility of 10 miles.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09FA080 for the full record.