Primary finding
Probable cause
A bird strike during takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was practicing 180-degree, power off landings. During a full power climb out, approximately 100 feet above the ground, a large bird flew in front of the airplane, from north to south. The bird and the leading edge of the left wing collided in flight. The pilot landed the airplane without further incident. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the left wing.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was practicing 180-degree, power off landings. During a full power climb out, approximately 100 feet above the ground, a large bird flew in front of the airplane, from north to south. The bird and the leading edge of the left wing collided in flight. The pilot landed the airplane without further incident. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the left wing.