Primary finding
Probable cause
The airplane’s impact with a bird while enroute.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The operator reported that while enroute, the airplane encountered a flock of seagulls. The First Officer called out “birds” and the Captain attempted to take evasive action but one of the birds impacted the leading edge of the right wing, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing. Subsequently, the crew diverted to a nearby airport and landed safely. The operator reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.