On a sunny August morning in 2022, the skies over Bealeton, Virginia, were alive with the hum of vintage aircraft. It was a day like many others at the Flying Circus Aerodrome, a privately operated field known for airshows and scenic rides in classic biplanes. But in just a few seconds, a routine day turned into a dramatic mid-runway collision—an accident that, thankfully, left only minor injuries but offered major lessons in situational awareness, communication, and procedure.
The Scene: Vintage Wings Over Virginia
Two classic Boeing Stearman biplanes, both part of the Flying Circus’s operation, were involved in this incident. One was preparing to land. The other was lining up for takeoff. Both aircraft were from the 1940s, with tailwheel configurations and open cockpits—a nostalgic throwback to aviation’s golden age. But even in a vintage setting, the rules of safety still apply.
It was around 9:07 a.m. when the accident happened. Visibility was great—ten miles, light wind, clear skies. In other words, a perfect day to fly. But even perfect conditions can’t compensate for a breakdown in communication.
The Players: Two Experienced Pilots, One Critical Oversight
Both pilots were 62-year-old commercial aviators with thousands of hours under their belts. The pilot of the landing aircraft (Aircraft A1) was also a flight instructor, boasting over 5,900 total flight hours and 3,730 in that specific make and model—a seasoned pro. The pilot of the departing aircraft (Aircraft A2) had similarly extensive experience: 5,900 total hours and 1,100 in type. Both held Class 2 medical certificates and were well-versed in the quirks of the aircraft they flew.
But despite all that experience, neither pilot was actively using their radio.
The Flying Circus Protocol: Tradition Meets Trouble
The Flying Circus Aerodrome has a unique set of local procedures, developed in part because not all participating aircraft have radios. One such procedure involves aircraft on approach making a low pass over the runway to visually signal their intent to land—an old-school method designed to increase awareness among pilots waiting to depart.
In theory, this works. In practice, it’s risky.
The landing pilot followed this procedure, making a low approach before entering the traffic pattern for Runway 20. Meanwhile, the pilot preparing for takeoff was taxiing behind another plane. After the lead aircraft departed, he moved into position on the runway—but he never saw the inbound aircraft.
Likewise, the landing pilot didn’t see the other Stearman now sitting squarely on the runway centerline. The result? A literal touchdown on top of the other plane.
The Impact: A Sudden, Shocking Collision
As the landing aircraft flared for touchdown, it struck the departing plane just as it was about to lift off. Both aircraft were substantially damaged. The landing pilot and his single passenger were fortunate—only the pilot suffered minor injuries. The same was true for the departing aircraft’s occupants. No fire, no post-crash complications—just two crumpled aircraft and a lot of questions.
Human Factors: Confidence, Routine, and Complacency
One of the most striking aspects of this accident is the background of the pilots. These weren’t novices. These were highly experienced, capable aviators, each with nearly 6,000 hours of flight time. So how did they collide?
Experience can sometimes breed complacency. When procedures rely too much on routine and not enough on clear communication, even skilled professionals can make critical misjudgments. The pilots trusted the visual signaling system. They trusted that the other would see them. But trust without verification is a dangerous game—especially in aviation.
Aftermath: Ground Lessons from an Airborne Mistake
While both planes had working radios, neither pilot used them. That decision became a central focus of the NTSB’s analysis. The lack of radio communication turned a manageable situation into a dangerous one, relying entirely on visual separation—which failed.
In its final report, the NTSB cited the primary cause as the departing pilot’s failure to see and avoid the landing aircraft. But it also pointed to the airport’s outdated procedures and lack of encouragement for radio use as contributing factors.
Following the crash, the Flying Circus updated its policies. Now, all aircraft equipped with radios are strongly encouraged to use them while in the pattern. The holding area for departing aircraft was also relocated to provide better visibility of the approach path.
Lessons from the Flying Circus
This incident is a powerful reminder that no matter how many hours you have logged, or how familiar you are with the aircraft or airport, safety demands constant vigilance. Some key takeaways:
- Use Your Radio: If you have one, use it. Especially in shared airspace, radio calls are an essential layer of situational awareness.
- Don’t Assume You’ve Been Seen: A low approach is not a guarantee that others are watching. Always double-check before committing to the runway.
- Reevaluate Local Procedures: Tradition has its place—but not when it compromises safety. Procedures should evolve with technology and experience.
In the end, everyone walked away. But not without a sobering reminder that even on calm, sunny mornings, flying demands your full attention—on the ground and in the air.
