Primary finding
Probable cause
The failure of an unknown person to follow proper procedures/directives by operating a radio-controlled model plane in airport traffic pattern airspace.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was on short final for a visual approach to runway 15. He observed an approaching object that appeared to be a radio-controlled model airplane. He pulled up and banked to the left; however, the object collided with the underside of the right wing. The ailerons were momentarily jammed, but force on the control yoke freed them. He executed a go-around and landed the airplane on runway 20. Examination of the aircraft revealed a hole in the underside of the right wing, a destroyed rib, and a nicked aileron cable. There was also a bulge in the upper wing skin. A small sliver of wood was found inside the damaged wing section. A search for the model airplane and its operators was unsuccessful.
Source record
Factual narrative
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