Primary finding
Probable cause
An in-flight collision with a bird while on approach.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while on a published instrument approach procedure a bird impacted the leading edge of the left wing, which resulted in substantial damage to the wing structure. He stated that there were no flight control difficulties and that he was able to land safely on the intended runway. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.