Tragic Mid-Air Collision Claims Two Lives at Marana Regional Airport in Arizona

In a somber reminder of the inherent risks of aviation, a mid-air collision between two small aircraft resulted in the loss of two lives at Arizona’s Marana Regional Airport on the morning of February 19, 2025. This incident adds to a series of recent aviation tragedies that have raised concerns about flight safety across the nation.

This latest incident reminds me of a quote by Captain A.G. Lamplugh:

“Aviation in itself is not inherently dangerous. But to an even greater degree than the sea, it is terribly unforgiving of any carelessness, incapacity, or neglect.” 

The Incident Unfolds

A tragic mid-air collision occurred on the morning of Wednesday, February 19, 2025, near Marana Regional Airport, northwest of Tucson, Arizona. The incident, which took place around 8:28 a.m. local time, involved two small aircraft—a Cessna 172S and a Lancair 360 MK II—each carrying two people.

According to initial reports, the collision happened as the two planes were maneuvering in the upwind area of runway 12. The Cessna 172S had just completed a stop-and-go maneuver on the runway, while the Lancair 360 MK II was in the process of executing a go-around procedure. Unfortunately, the Lancair did not sidestep the runway as expected. As the Cessna lifted off, its propeller struck the tail of the Lancair, leading to the tragic outcome.

Despite the impact, the Cessna 172S was able to return safely to the airport, completing its flight pattern without further incident. The two occupants on board, who were pilots from the AeroGuard flight training school, were unharmed. However, the Lancair 360 MK II crashed near runway 3, erupting into flames upon impact. Both individuals on board the Lancair were killed in the crash.

Marana Regional Airport is an uncontrolled field, meaning it does not have an active air traffic control tower to direct aircraft movements. Pilots rely on a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate with other nearby aircraft. The absence of a control tower places greater responsibility on pilots to maintain situational awareness and communicate effectively to prevent such accidents.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the collision. As aviation safety officials analyze the circumstances surrounding the crash, the accident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks pilots face, even in what seem like routine flight operations.

Investigation Underway

An NTSB investigator was expected to arrive at the crash site to gather evidence and assess the aircraft involved. In the meantime, the airport has been temporarily closed to facilitate the ongoing investigation.

In an uncontrolled field such as Marana, it is vital to remember that the pilot-in-command (PIC) is responsible for maintaining a safe distance from other aircraft and ensuring that the flight is conducted according to FAA regulations. These rules include minimum visibility requirements, safe altitude levels, and right-of-way procedures to prevent collisions.

As a matter of fact, the PIC is always responsible for maintaining a safe distance from other aircraft, regardless of the airfield type or air traffic control situation. This responsibility is a fundamental aspect of the PIC’s role and authority.

Since uncontrolled airports do not have an active control tower, they rely heavily on pilot communication and strict adherence to safety protocols. This requires pilots to remain extra vigilant, communicate clearly, and coordinate their movements with other aircraft to ensure safe operations. The absence of air traffic controllers places greater responsibility on pilots to monitor their surroundings and follow established flight procedures to avoid accidents like the one that occurred at Marana.

A Grim Pattern of Recent Accidents

This tragedy marks the fifth aviation incident in North America since January 29, 2025, underscoring a concerning pattern of accidents in a relatively short span. Notably:

January 29, 2025: A catastrophic mid-air collision over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., involving a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet resulted in the loss of all 67 individuals aboard both aircraft.

January 31, 2025: A medical transport jet crashed in Philadelphia, leaving no survivors.

February 10, 2025: A private jet owned by Mötley Crüe singer Vince Neil collided with a parked aircraft at Scottsdale Airport in Arizona. The crash resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries.

February 17, 2025: A Delta Air Lines regional jet overturned upon landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport, injuring 18 individuals, including a child.

These incidents have collectively heightened public concern regarding aviation safety and have prompted calls for thorough investigations and the implementation of enhanced safety measures.

It’s important to remember that commercial air travel remains the safest mode of transportation despite these recent tragedies.  Only 0.01 deaths occur per 100 million miles traveled by air compared to 1.27 deaths per 100 million miles traveled by car in the US. Statistically, that makes your drive to the airport about 127 times more dangerous than the flight you are about to board.

The Road Ahead

As the NTSB and FAA continue their meticulous examination of the Marana collision, the aviation community awaits their findings to understand the root causes and to develop strategies aimed at preventing future tragedies. In the interim, this incident serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of stringent safety protocols, effective communication, and unwavering vigilance in the skies.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who perished in this tragic event.