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Early Analysis: Reno Air Race T-6 Midair

North American T-6G and a North American AT-6B

The NTSB has not yet released its preliminary report regarding the investigation into the Reno Air Races T-6 Midair accident at the Reno-Stead Airport, Nevada.

On September 17, 2023, two North American Aviation T-6 Texans crashed midair at the National Championship Air Races (NCAR) in Reno, Nevada. No injuries on the ground were reported. Tragically, the accident claimed the lives of esteemed air race competitors Chris Rushing and Nick Macy, both of whom were prior NCAR winners.

Following the final flag of the last race on the parting day of the National Championship Air Races ever to be held in Reno, the two competitors in the T-6 class, Gold category, dropped from the cool-down area and positioned themselves for landing on Runway 8. The midair collision occurred at some point during their transition from the cool-down area to landing.

In Early Analysis: Reno T-6 Midair, the AOPA Air Safety Institute (ASI) makes a preliminary assessment of the accident, addressing notable portions of the tragic flight and highlighting areas the NTSB will likely investigate to determine a probable cause.

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AOPA Air Safety Institute staff
AOPA Air Safety Institute Staff members share a deep passion for aviation safety. As compassionate pilots, we bring together safety research, analysis, and knowledge in creative ways to share aviation safety education with you—with the ultimate goal of one day having zero fatal accidents in GA.

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