Mid-air`en I USA - Hendelsesforløpet - Curt Lewis

 

Accident: Key Lime SW4 and private aircraft at Denver on May 12th 2021, midair collision

A Key Lime Air Swearingen SA-226TC Metro II, registration N280KL performing flight KG-970 from Salida,CO to Denver Centennial,CO (USA) with one crew, was on a visual approach to Centennial's runway 17L cleared for the approach and was descending through 6400 feet about 3nm north of the threshold runway 17L at about 11:24L (16:24Z).

A private Cirrus SR-22, registration N416DJ with two people on board, was cleared for a visual approach to runway 17R and was advised of the traffic landing on the parallel runway. The Cirrus descended through 6400 feet about 3nm north of the threshold of runway 17R, but overshot the centerlines of both runways 17R and 17L.

The two aircraft collided, the Cirrus apparently struck across through the fuselage of the Metroliner just above the wings taking out the whole cabin section at that point. The Metro crew declared emergency on tower frequency reporting their right hand engine had failed and reported they saw another aircraft on parachute going down. After landing the crew advised, it had definitely been a mid air collision.

The Cirrus pilot activated their parachute and landed in a field nearby with no injuries. The crew of the Metroliner managed to land the aircraft at Centennial Airport.

The Cirrus with two people on board ended up about 2.7nm north of runway 17L in the area of the Cherry Creek Reservoir. The local Sheriff's Office gave the location of the Cirrus between E. Bellevue Ave and S. Cherry Creek Drive. The Sheriffs Office stated, the other aircraft was carrying cargo only and was flown by a single pilot. There were no injuries.

The NTSB have opened an investigation and are dispatching investigators on site stating: "NTSB is investigating the May 12, 2021, mid-air collision involving a Metroliner & a Cirrus near Denver, Colorado. No injuries reported in connection with the collision. Initial report indicates collision happened as airplanes were landing. The NTSB will travel to the scene."