Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The impact with a bird during initial takeoff climb.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
During initial takeoff climb at 300 feet above ground level (agl) at 140 knots, the pilot noticed a "buzzard" to the front and slightly above the airplane. The pilot lowered the pitch and right wing; however, the "bird folded his wings and dove toward me." The bird impacted the right wing leading edge. The pilot "conducted a controllability check" and noticed a slight vibration with the right aileron. The pilot continued to Southeast Texas Regional Airport (BPT), Beaumont, Texas, located 56 nautical miles from the departure airport, because BPT had emergency services. The airplane landed uneventfully. Prior to the flight, the pilot was unaware of any reported bird activity in the area. Examination of the airplane showed minor damage to the right wing leading edge and three wing ribs.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# DEN08IA143