Primary finding
Probable cause
The impact with a bird during initial takeoff climb.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
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 his destination (56 nautical miles) because that airport 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.
Source record
Factual narrative
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.