Two killed in US midair plane collision

Two people have died after two small planes collided midair near Marana Regional Airport in Arizona, United States on Wednesday, authorities confirmed.

A Cessna 172S and a Lancair 360 MK II collided around 8:28 a.m., just northwest of Tucson.

CNN reported that the fixed-wing single-engine planes “collided while upwind of runway 12,” one of two runways at the airport. The Cessna landed “uneventfully” and the Lancair impacted terrain near the other runway and “a post-impact fire ensured,” the NTSB said.

The Marana Police Department confirmed that two fatalities resulted from the crash.

The identities and conditions of the victims have not been released. Marana Regional Airport is closed as authorities investigate the incident.

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According to CNN, Airport Superintendent Galen Beem expressed condolences, stating, “On behalf of the Town of Marana and the Marana Regional Airport, our hearts go out to all the individuals and families impacted by this event.”

He also thanked the Marana Police Department and the Northwest Fire District for their swift response.

The Federal Aviation Administration reported that Marana Regional Airport operates as an “uncontrolled field,” meaning it lacks an air traffic control tower.

Pilots typically communicate their positions on a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency to avoid collisions. However, even in uncontrolled airspace, pilots are required to adhere to federal aviation regulations.

An investigator from the National Transportation Safety Board is expected to arrive at the scene Thursday morning to examine the wreckage and begin their investigation. The FAA is also involved in the response.

This crash followed a series of recent aviation incidents, including a fatal midair collision at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in late January.